"The philosophy of protectionism is a philosophy of war"

The quote by Ludwig von Mises is referring to the concept of protectionism, which is the practice of shielding a nation's domestic industries from foreign competitors by imposing tariffs and other restrictions on imports. Mises is suggesting that this philosophy of protectionism is eventually a viewpoint of war, as it is a form of economic warfare in between countries. Protectionism can result in vindictive tariffs, which can cause financial disturbance and even cause trade wars. Mises is warning that protectionism can have major consequences, which it needs to be prevented if possible. He is recommending that countries need to rather focus on free trade and free markets, which can lead to higher financial success and peace between countries.