What is one reason countries may pursue trade protection?

Countries may pursue trade protection primarily to protect domestic jobs. When a government implements trade protection measures, such as tariffs or quotas, it aims to shield local industries from foreign competition. This protection helps to sustain and potentially increase employment in domestic sectors by making imported goods more expensive, thereby encouraging consumers to buy local products.

The protectionist policies can be seen as tools to maintain a competitive edge for domestic businesses, preventing them from losing market share to cheaper foreign alternatives. As a result, this can lead to job retention or creation in industries deemed vital for the economy or national security.

In contrast, enhancing foreign competition typically involves reducing trade barriers, while increasing imports directly contradicts the concept of trade protection. Eliminating tariffs would also undermine the protective measures that have been established, thus not aligning with the goal of safeguarding domestic employment.