Uncle Sam's Hand in the Cookie Jar!
Alright folks Saul Goodman here your favorite attorney... and now apparently international trade analyst? Who knew! So Pakistan's been feeling the squeeze from those good ol' American tariffs courtesy of well you know who. Twenty nine percent can you believe it? That's like charging a client double just because they look shady. Thankfully it's been dialed back to 10% which is like getting a plea bargain – still stings but not as bad as life in the slammer.
Pakistan's Got Game!
Now this Muhammad Aurangzeb fella Pakistan's finance minister he's playing it cool. He's saying 'Hey US we export a little over $5 billion import about $2 billion plus. Let's close this gap!' That's what I tell the IRS – 'It's just a gap fellas! Nothing to see here!' He's also got a point about those high quality cotton and soybeans. Gotta keep those blue jeans and tofu coming right? And copper apparently Pakistan's got the shiny stuff. Just don't go all Walter White on me alright?
A Pivot? Or Just a Polite Nod?
Now here's where it gets interesting. The big question: US or China? Aurangzeb smooth operator that he is says 'We're not picking sides!' Classic lawyer answer. 'Both are very critical and strategic allies.' Translation? 'I need your money and I need your money. Don't make me choose!' It's like trying to decide between a Cadillac and a Rolls Royce both are great but one might come with a little more baggage... or shall we say surveillance?
China's Sweet Deal!
China's been whispering sweet nothings into Pakistan's ear for a while now especially with that whole Belt and Road Initiative. Billions of dollars infrastructure projects the works. It's like China's buying Pakistan a diamond necklace... a very very long and expensive diamond necklace made of concrete and steel. And that China Pakistan Economic Corridor? $65 billion! That's enough to buy a lot of burner phones let me tell you.
Strategic Partners or Frenemies?!
Aurangzeb is adamant that the U.S. is a 'very strategic partner.' Sure until China offers a better deal right? It's all about leverage baby! Just like negotiating a plea deal. You gotta play both sides see what you can get. 'From Pakistan's perspective the U.S. has been a very strategic partner one of our largest trading partners. Therefore we want to very constructively engage with the U.S.,' said Aurangzeb. Clever fella!
So What's Next for Pakistan?
Well Pakistan's got a tightrope to walk. Keep Uncle Sam happy keep China happy and try to make a buck in the process. It's a tough gig tougher than trying to explain to Kim Wexler why I need to bend the rules 'just a little.' But hey that's why they pay the big bucks... or you know try to get the best possible trade deal. Just remember Pakistan if you ever need a lawyer who knows how to 'creatively' navigate international waters you know who to call!
Pakistan US trade China tariffs exports imports Donald Trump Belt and Road Initiative China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Muhammad Aurangzeb
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831jerry
Tariffs are just a legal way to steal from consumers.
donkeypunch
Saul knows what's up! Always follow the money.
hectorbanks
This is better than my con law class.
robot28
Trade wars are a racket! Tell 'em, Saul!
noctrum
I bet Saul could negotiate a peace treaty with aliens.
gamer007
Hey Saul, you taking new clients? Asking for a friend...
xiaoJ7
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is the way to go!
phantomgreen666
Someone get this guy a TV show!
anneelise23
Saul, you're the best trade analyst I know! (And probably the only one I know.)