Episode 670 of NPR's Planet Money podcast looks at the role trade barriers play in certain industriesin particular, Santa costumes.

Is a Santa suit worth starting a trade war?

Where does a Santa suit fall into the group of taxed goods coming into the country?

After listening to this podcast, you might have questions about the sanity of the trade code. That would be perfectly reasonable, but there is certainly a rationale behind the seeking of such protections. How much effort would you put into getting trade protection for your business?

What impact do such special trade deals have on the macro economy?

Who do these trade laws benefit, and who do they hurt?

What other kinds of goods can you find that have special trade barriers?

Who advocates for these, and why? Are any of these a good idea? Why or why not?