As President Trump ramps up tariffs on key trade partners, other nations are finding ways to cut deals without involving the U.S. It’s like a global game of musical chairs—and America might be left standing.

In recent months, the European Union has been busy. They’ve inked agreements with South American countries, Switzerland, and Mexico, creating some of the world’s largest trade zones. These deals link markets with hundreds of millions of people, making it easier for goods to flow across borders.

For example, the EU just finalized a major pact with four South American nations, forming a massive trade bloc. They’ve also resumed talks with Malaysia, a project that had been on hold for over a decade. "We play by the rules," said the EU Commission’s leader, Ursula von der Leyen, at a recent summit. "Our deals are straightforward and transparent."

But while other nations are lowering trade barriers, the U.S. seems to be building walls. Over the weekend, Trump slapped a 25% tariff on Canada and Mexico, and a 10% tariff on China. Swiftly, these countries promised to hit back with their own measures.

It’s clear the U.S. still holds significant economic clout—no one can completely ignore it. But as more countries team up without America, they’re showing they can work around it.

This shift in global trade dynamics could reshape how economies interact for years to come. For now, the U.S. is at a crossroads: double down on protectionism or consider a new approach.

What’s next? Only time will tell—but the ripple effects of these moves could be felt far and wide.