What does the term 'negative use of economic power' refer to in a military context?

The term 'negative use of economic power' in a military context primarily refers to actions taken to hinder or disrupt another nation's economy. Tariffs, which are taxes imposed on imported goods, can be used as a tool to achieve this negative effect by making foreign products more expensive and less competitive in a domestic market. This can lead to economic strain on the targeted country, potentially weakening its economic stability and resources, which can have broader implications for its military capabilities.

In contrast, unilateral trade agreements, investment in military technology, and foreign aid distribution do not inherently represent a negative use of economic power. Unilateral trade agreements may facilitate trade rather than impede it, while investment in military technology focuses on improving a nation's own capabilities rather than affecting another's. Foreign aid distribution typically aims to support development and stability in other nations rather than exerting detrimental pressure on them. Therefore, tariffs clearly align with the concept of using economic measures negatively to impact another nation's economy within a military context.