Protectionism of one's products is a zero sum game, as well as govt (taxpayer's) subsidies in a free market World. It benefits only the producer whose profits are untouched.
It does not promote ingenuity or resourcefulness, or other progressive traits necessary for Human evolution
If there are no profits to gained, they would not be producers. With protectionist measures, they can sell cheaply to citizens AND at same time, their products being cheap, they can export to world markets & gain hi market share than others, contrary to free market principles of level playing field, & profitted immensely not for oneself, but own generations to come.
The only national interest they have is the national symbols on dollar notes they can gain at taxpayer's expense. & the political theatre of scratching backs to ensure such benefits last forever
