What is protectionism primarily aimed at achieving?

Protectionism is primarily aimed at shielding domestic industries from foreign competition. This economic policy involves the implementation of tariffs, quotas, and other trade barriers that make foreign goods more expensive or difficult to import. By doing so, a country seeks to protect local businesses and jobs from foreign competitors that may offer similar products at lower prices or with better features.

The rationale behind protectionism is that by supporting domestic industries, the country can promote economic stability, preserve jobs, and foster growth within its own market. This aligns with the goals of many policymakers who aim to ensure that local industries can thrive without the pressure of competing directly with foreign entities that may have advantages such as lower production costs or governmental support.

In contrast, options like encouraging foreign investment, shifting economic power to foreign nations, or promoting free trade agreements run counter to the primary motivations of protectionism. Such policies typically seek to foster openness in trade and investment rather than create barriers that protect domestic markets from outside influence.