Topic: Import Taxes

The Border Adjustment Tax (BAT), originally proposed by economist Alan Auerbach and supported by Paul Ryan, would tax imported goods while exempting exports. Steve Bannon praised the concept as an elegant solution to trade imbalances, but noted it was killed by the Koch brothers and other libertarian interests. The tax functions similarly to a Value Added Tax (VAT) but specifically targets the point of consumption for imported products.

A discussion regarding the high cost of shipping goods to the United Kingdom, specifically noting a $45 charge for t-shirts. Speculation arises that these costs are driven by textile import taxes rather than simple logistics. An anecdote describes ordering linens for a king-size bed and being surprised by a 35-pound customs fee upon delivery.