[gman2093]

If this were a goal, the USA would not want to push other countries into China's sphere of influence. The simpler explanation is that non-tariff taxes require congress and are not fully under control of the executive branch. This allows the executive branch to seize the power of the purse.

[freeone3000]

Tariff taxes also require congress. It’s a constitutionally enumerated power of Congress specifically to levy import duties.

[bilbo0s]

Well, I mean, since we threw out the opposition in Congress?

I'm thinking we'd better not rely on Congress to put a stop to anything. A simple veto removes that problem. No way what's left of the opposition in Congress comes up with the votes to override a veto.