US experts assert global trade is undergoing an uncoordinated restructuring, not collapse. At an April 29 presentation at Washington's Peterson Institute, Richard Baldwin of IMD Business School termed US tariffs "tariff theater"—domestic political signaling. Gary Hufbauer of the Peterson Institute agreed, adding that market forces have restrained tariffs, leading to exemptions. Both experts criticized the misuse of national security for protectionism, with Hufbauer dismissing demands for a Chinese auto ban as "ridiculous." A March WTO report projects 2024 global merchandise trade growth at 1.9%, with Asia leading at over 3% due to China's industrial strength. China's export controls are credited with dampening anti-Chinese aggression and protecting the WTO system, highlighting its role in stabilizing global trade amid US unilateralism.