Portuguese economist Ricardo Reis dropped by IMF after criticising Trump tariffs

Portuguese economist Ricardo Reis was reportedly removed from contention for the chief economist position at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) due to his criticism of Donald Trump’s tariffs. The Financial Times, citing three unnamed sources, revealed that Ricardo Reis, a professor at the London School of Economics, had been considered for the role but the IMF reportedly withdrew its interest upon discovering his stance on US trade policy.

Revised economic policy, according to Ricardo Reis, could lead to higher prices within the United States and potentially spark a resurgence in inflation. In July, the IMF ultimately appointed Silvana Tenreyro to the position, a former Bank of England policymaker and LSE professor. Sources confirm that Tenreyro also holds the view that tariffs impede economic growth, although she is reportedly less critical of the Trump administration compared to Ricardo Reis.

Ricardo Reis declined to comment on the reported removal, providing no further details to the Financial Times. The situation unfolds amid a backdrop of pressure from the Trump administration targeting economists who express dissent with US tariffs. The IMF declined to comment on the selection process, citing confidentiality and emphasizing that the choice had been both rigorous and competitive.