Tag: Economy of the United States

Trump Reveals First Set Of Projects Under US-Japan Trade Deal

Trump Reveals First Set Of Projects Under US-Japan Trade Deal

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The ambitious trade deal between America and Japan is beginning to take shape as the administration of US President Donald J. Trump unveiled the first set of multi-billion Dollar projects, according to a news report by Kyodo News.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration said Tuesday that Japan will finance the production of synthetic diamonds and two energy projects worth about $36 billion as the initial tranche of investments under a deal reached last year following months of tariff negotiations.

Trump’s announcement that the three projects had been selected, as part of a $550 billion package that Japan committed to in exchange for his administration reducing tariffs on Japanese cars and other goods, was confirmed hours later by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

“These projects are so large, and could not be done without one very special word, TARIFFS,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “America is building again. America is producing again. And America is WINNING again.”

Calling it a historic time for the United States and Japan, he said a critical minerals project will be carried out in Georgia, along with plans for an oil facility in Texas and power generation infrastructure in Ohio.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the United States and Japan will build the largest-ever natural gas infrastructure in Ohio, expected to produce 9.2 gigawatts of power, a deepwater crude oil export facility in the Gulf of Mexico and establish synthetic industrial diamond manufacturing capacity in the United States.

Lutnick said the deepwater facility is likely to generate $20 billion to $30 billion in U.S. crude oil exports annually.

Takaichi said on social media that the gas infrastructure will power artificial intelligence data centers, and the production of synthetic diamonds used in the semiconductor, auto and aviation industries is aimed at reducing the two countries’ overreliance on a specific country, without naming China.

“Going forward, Japan and the United States will continue working closely to further coordinate the details for implementing each project, ensuring their early and smooth execution,” Takaichi said in an X post.

Under a trade deal struck in July last year, Japan has committed to investing $550 billion in the United States by the end of Trump’s second term in January 2029.

Japan’s commitment comprises investments, loans and loan guarantees from Japanese government-backed financial institutions.

Japan’s industry minister Ryosei Akazawa told reporters in Tokyo that about $33.3 billion will be invested in the gas infrastructure, with Japanese companies such as Hitachi Ltd., Mitsubishi Electric Corp., Toshiba Corp. and SoftBank Group Corp. interested in participating in the project.

The project to increase U.S. crude oil exports is valued at $2.1 billion and the production of synthetic diamonds is worth $600 million, according to Akazawa, who mentioned Japanese firms such as Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd., Nippon Steel Corp. and Asahi Diamond Industrial Co. in connection with these initiatives.

Last week, Akazawa and Lutnick agreed in Washington to speed up the selection process for the first round of investments, as the two countries prepare for Takaichi’s visit to the United States next month.

Japan and the United States have said that the investments will focus on strategic sectors, such as critical minerals, semiconductors, artificial intelligence and energy, to advance their national security interests and economic objectives.

The memorandum of understanding between Japan and the United States, signed by Akazawa and Lutnick in September last year, stipulates that Trump will ultimately choose projects recommended by an “investment committee” chaired by the commerce secretary and composed solely of U.S. officials.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the first projects of the US-Japan trade deal will create huge economic impact over the next few years? What other ambitious projects do you think Japan and America will focus on next?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Japan And Trump’s America To Speed Up Investment Plans Under $550 Billion Package

Japan And Trump’s America To Speed Up Investment Plans Under $550 Billion Package

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Remember Japan’s commitment of investing $550 billion into core industries in the United States? The two great nations had a high-level meeting in Washington and they agreed to speed up the selection of the first round of investment projects under the multi-billion Dollar package before they are sent to US President Donald J. Trump for approval, according to a news report by Kyodo News.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

Japan and the United States agreed Thursday to speed up selection of the first round of investment projects under a $550 billion package that Tokyo committed to last year following months of tariff negotiations, with a summit of their leaders about a month away.

Hours after his meeting with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick in Washington, Japanese industry minister Ryosei Akazawa told reporters a “significant gap” remained and more coordination was required to serve the mutual interests of the two countries.

“In conducting negotiations, we are naturally keeping in mind the goal of making Prime Minister (Sanae) Takaichi’s visit to the United States a fruitful one,” he said.

Akazawa’s meeting with Lutnick was believed to be part of last-ditch efforts to sort out the first batch of Japanese investment projects to be carried out in the United States, before they are sent to President Donald Trump for final approval.

Although Akazawa, who serves as economy, trade and industry minister, said there was some progress, neither side could unveil any specifics. While refusing to elaborate, he suggested differences remained over interest rates and business risk assessments.

“In a nutshell, as far as we are concerned, high-risk, high-return (investments), given that they also involve taxpayers’ money, are not something we are interested in,” he said.

The meeting with Lutnick took place a week after Trump said he would welcome Takaichi to the White House on March 19.

Under a trade deal struck in July last year, Japan has committed to investing $550 billion in the United States by the end of Trump’s second term in January 2029, in exchange for his administration reducing tariffs on Japanese cars and other goods.

The massive figure represents a combination of investments, loans and loan guarantees from Japanese government-backed financial institutions.

Japan and the United States have agreed that the forthcoming investments will focus on strategic sectors, such as critical minerals, semiconductors, artificial intelligence and energy, to support their national security interests and economic objectives.

For the initial tranche of investments, the construction of gas-fired power generation facilities for data centers, the production of synthetic diamonds used in the semiconductor industry and the development of a port are among the leading candidates, according to Japanese officials.

The memorandum of understanding between Japan and the United States, signed by Akazawa and Lutnick in September last year, stipulates that Trump will ultimately select projects recommended by an “investment committee” chaired by the commerce secretary and composed solely of U.S. officials.

Earlier in the process, the so-called consultation committee — comprising officials from both countries — is tasked with identifying potential investment projects.

The United States will forward investment projects that gain Trump’s endorsement to Japan for review, with Tokyo given 45 days to respond and transfer the necessary funds to Washington.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the two nations will reach an agreement over the first round of investment projects under the $550 billion package? Do you think the remaining challenges will be resolved in due time? Are you looking forward to Prime Minister Takaichi’s Washington visit and meeting with President Trump this March?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Trump Welcomes Vietnam’s Decision To Join Board of Peace

Trump Welcomes Vietnam’s Decision To Join Board of Peace

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Following the ratification of the charter of the Board of Peace in Davos, Vietnam officially decided to join it which US President Donald Trump welcomed, according to a news report by VnExpress. Trump previously invited Vietnam’s leader to join the council.

Vietnam’s entry into the Board of Peace (note: referred to as the Peace Council in the VnExpress report) is not exactly surprising as it already has friendly ties with Israel. Ties between Vietnam and America are also healthy.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the report of VnExpress. Some parts in boldface…

U.S. President Donald Trump has sent a message congratulating Vietnam’s Party General Secretary To Lam on his re-election for a 14th term and welcoming Vietnam’s decision to join the Peace Council initiative.

President Trump said General Secretary Lam’s continued leadership role comes at an important time, as Vietnam and the U.S. are pressing ahead with the positive outcomes achieved in bilateral relations in recent years.

The President also expressed his hope that the two sides would soon make positive progress in negotiations on a reciprocal, fair and balanced trade agreement, thereby further promoting shared prosperity.

He welcomed Vietnam’s decision to join the Peace Council initiative, and thanked and highly valued Vietnam’s role as well as Vietnam-U.S. cooperation in promoting peace and safeguarding freedom, sovereignty and independence of countries in the Indo-Pacific and the world at large.

President Trump said he is confident that Vietnam-U.S. relations would continue to deepen across all fields, from economy and trade to security, defense and people-to-people exchanges, and expressed his hope to welcome General Secretary Lam to the U.S. at an appropriate time.

General Secretary Lam accepted the invitation from U.S. President Donald Trump last month to join the Gaza Peace Council and affirmed Vietnam’s readiness to participate as a founding member state of the council.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think Vietnam will become a major contributor on the rehabilitation of the Gaza Strip? What is your opinion about the state of Vietnam-America ties as well as Vietnam-Israel ties?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Trump Picks Kevin Warsh As The Next Federal Reserve Chairman

Trump Picks Kevin Warsh As The Next Federal Reserve Chairman

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At long last, US President Donald Trump picked Kevin Warsh as the next chairman of the Federal Reserve replacing Jerome Powell, and already a lot of public officials and high-ranking members of the private sector support the choice, according to the Kyodo News report plus the White House press statement respectively.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the report of Kyodo News. Some parts in boldface…

U.S. President Donald Trump said Friday he will nominate Kevin Warsh to be the next chair of the Federal Reserve, with the choice of a Wall Street veteran who was a governor of the central bank over a decade ago seen as intended to avoid roiling financial markets.

Trump’s pick to replace Jerome Powell as the Fed chair caps a process that formally began last summer. While screening candidates in private, he has subjected Powell to relentless public criticism for not cutting interest rates more aggressively and challenged the independence of the world’s most influential central bank.

Trump announced the nomination in a post on social media, saying, “I have known Kevin for a long period of time, and have no doubt that he will go down as one of the GREAT Fed Chairmen, maybe the best.“

“On top of everything else, he is ‘central casting,’ and he will never let you down,” Trump added. The lengthy post, though it included information on Warsh’s professional experience, did not clearly explain the reason for his selection.

Powell’s term as Fed chief ends in May. The role requires Senate confirmation, which may not be smooth sailing for Warsh due to bipartisan concern over the Fed’s independence under Trump, most recently evidenced by the Department of Justice launching a criminal probe into Powell over a renovation of the central bank’s headquarters.

Trump told reporters later Friday in the Oval Office that he was not worried about the confirmation process, calling Warsh the “most qualified” person to take the helm of the Fed, based on his background and experience.

He also said he did not urge Warsh to cut interest rates, but admitted discussing the topic with him.

“I don’t want to ask him that question. I think it’s inappropriate, probably,” Trump said. “I want to keep it nice and pure. But he certainly wants to cut rates. I’ve been watching him for a long time.”

Warsh was previously appointed to the Fed in 2006 at the age of 35, making him the youngest person ever to serve on its board at that time. He was a board member until 2011.

During the 2008 financial crisis, he served as the Fed’s main liaison with Wall Street and earned a good reputation for stabilizing the situation.

Before that, he was a special assistant to President George W. Bush for economic policy and executive secretary of the White House National Economic Council.

After graduating from Harvard Law School in 1995, Warsh joined Morgan Stanley’s mergers and acquisitions division, where he worked for seven years and became vice president and executive director.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said last week that the screening of candidates for the next Fed chief had narrowed to four finalists.

The four were said to be Warsh, Kevin Hassett, Trump’s top economic adviser, Christopher Waller, a Fed governor, and Rick Rieder, BlackRock’s chief bond investment manager.

Calling Warsh and Hassett “the two Kevins,” Trump had repeatedly said they were “great” in the weeks leading up to his official announcement.

Warsh was a finalist in the 2017 Fed chair race during Trump’s first term and was reportedly a candidate for Treasury secretary in his second presidency.

During his time on the Fed’s board, Warsh was considered a monetary hawk, meaning he was typically supportive of higher interest rates to curb inflation, even in the middle of the financial crisis.

Compared with Hassett, a close ally of Trump’s who has openly advocated lower borrowing costs for businesses and consumers, Warsh is seen by financial markets as someone who could protect the Fed’s independence from the White House.

However, Warsh, 55, an outspoken critic of the central bank, has increasingly aligned with Trump’s views in recent months. The forthcoming Senate process is likely to test his ability to withstand pressure from the president while also reassuring nervous investors.

In a November opinion piece in The Wall Street Journal, Warsh disapproved of the Fed’s current monetary policy and praised the Trump administration for advancing what he called “pro-growth” economic programs, focusing on deregulation and tax reforms.

Meanwhile, the White House press statement revealed a long list of public officials and financial market figures who responded positively to Warsh’s nomination to lead the Federal Reserve. Posted below are selected excerpts from the statement. Some parts in boldface.

The nomination has drawn widespread praise from lawmakers, business leaders, financial experts, and industry voices across the spectrum:

Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Chairman Tim Scott: “The Federal Reserve’s decisions touch every American household, from mortgage rates to retirement savings, and President Trump has been clear that bringing accountability and credibility to the Federal Reserve is a priority, and his nomination of Kevin Warsh reflects that focus. As a former Federal Reserve Governor, Kevin has deep knowledge of markets and monetary policy that will be essential in this role. Federal Reserve independence remains paramount, and I am confident Kevin will work to instill confidence and credibility in the Fed’s monetary policy. As Chairman of the Senate Banking Committee, I look forward to leading a thoughtful, timely confirmation process that carefully examines his vision for focusing the Federal Reserve on its core mission.”

Sen. Jim Banks: “Kevin Warsh is a brilliant pick by President Trump for Fed Chair. Clear from what he wrote in 2021 he understands scale of China’s ambitions. As member of Banking Committee I look forward to working with him to maintain American financial supremacy.”

Sen. Marsha Blackburn: “Kevin Warsh is exceptionally qualified to lead the Federal Reserve as Chairman. I look forward to supporting this nomination in the Senate, and I am confident Kevin will help foster economic growth and create more opportunity for hardworking Americans.”

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney: “Kevin Warsh is a fantastic choice to lead the world’s most important central bank at this crucial time.”

Mortgage Bankers Association President and CEO Bob Broeksmit: “MBA congratulates Kevin Warsh on his nomination to serve as Chairman of the Federal Reserve. His prior service on the Federal Reserve Board, where he developed a reputation as a prudent, thoughtful voice on monetary policy, paired with his private sector experience, will be invaluable as he leads the Federal Reserve in what has become an increasingly challenging and complicated mission.”

U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Suzanne P. Clark: “Kevin is well known to the business community. We appreciate his years of focus on how we grow the American economy and maintain stable prices for America’s families, and look forward to his confirmation process.”

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon: “Kevin Warsh is a highly respected and experienced leader — across government, business and education — who I have seen act with integrity and a dedication to making our country better.”

Job Creators Network CEO Alfredo Ortiz: “Kevin Warsh is the perfect choice to lead the Federal Reserve. He has repeatedly demonstrated understanding of the true driver of inflation: excessive government money printing, not economic growth. Under his leadership, the Fed can finally reach its target inflation rate, something Chairman Powell has continually failed to do, while also expanding access to credit for small businesses. By protecting the value of the dollar, supporting economic growth, and boosting capital access, a Warsh chairmanship can backstop a booming small business economy. The Senate should quickly confirm him.”

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Considering the wide-reaching positive reactions to Trump’s pick for the next Chairman of the Federal Reserve, do you feel confident that Warsh is the right choice? Do you hope to see Warsh make positive changes once he takes over as the head of the Federal Reserve? Have you been frustrated with the way Jerome Powell led the Federal Reserve and executed financial policies over the past several years?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Trump Delivers Largest Tax Refund Season in American History

Trump Delivers Largest Tax Refund Season in American History

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While it is true that the economy of the United States is indeed growing, there are still a lot of Americans struggling financially. As such, the promised tax relief by US President Donald J. Trump is crucial for millions as the new tax season has started. The White House officially announced the largest tax refund in the nation’s history and there is professional feedback to support it.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the White House announcement. Some parts in boldface…

As tax season kicks off, millions of Americans are poised to receive significantly larger tax refunds thanks to President Donald J. Trump’s landmark Working Families Tax Cuts Act — which every Democrat in Congress opposed.

The historic legislation is delivering the biggest tax refund season ever, with average refunds projected to rise by $1,000 or more this year due to its transformative policies.

Reference from the White House announcement.

Economists and financial experts agree — 2026 will mark an unprecedented year for tax refunds:

USA TODAY: “The average refund in 2025 was $2,939, IRS data showed. This year, refunds could be as much as 30% more due to new provisions from President Donald Trump’s mega tax and spending bill, according to James Knightley, chief international economist at Dutch bank ING.”

CBS News: “Many Americans could see heftier tax refunds next year when they file their 2025 tax returns, largely due to new provisions enacted through the Republicans’ ‘one big, beautiful bill’ act that are retroactive to the start of the current year, according to an analysis from Oxford Economics. Total taxpayer savings could amount to an additional $50 billion through bigger tax refunds or a cut in their 2026 taxes…A $50 billion boost in tax refunds would represent an 18% increase from the $275 billion in refunds the IRS sent this year to nearly 94 million taxpayers who overpaid on their 2024 federal tax returns.”

The Wall Street Journal: “Refunds on average are expected to come in $1,000 higher than usual this year, according to a study by investment firm Piper Sandler.”

Business Insider: “The Tax Foundation estimates that the average tax refund will grow from $3,052 in 2024 to $3,800 for tax year 2025. Depending on your income and circumstances, you might get even more back.”

CNBC: “Tax experts and analysts have agreed that many filers will see bigger refunds… ‘Overall, we’re expecting these changes to increase refunds by 15% to 20% on average,’ Heather Berger, a U.S. economist with Morgan Stanley said…”

President Trump’s Working Families Tax Cuts Act provides broad-based tax relief for hardworking Americans, with the average taxpayer expected to see nearly $4,000 in total tax savings in 2026. Key provisions of the bill include No Tax on Tips, No Tax on Overtime, No Tax on Social Security, a deduction for auto loan interest on Made-in-America vehicles, and much more — putting more money back in the pockets of families, workers, and seniors.

For details about the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) and the Working Families Tax Cuts, click here and here.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think this new tax refund season will be very helpful to Americans who are struggling with making ends meet? Have you paid close attention to the details within the Working Families Tax Cuts and the One Big Beautiful Bill already? How many families in your local community have been anticipating the new tax refunds from the Trump administration? Do you think the new tax refunds will be able to boost gross domestic product (GDP) growth to 5% this year?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

A Lot More American Fruits And Vegetables Imported By Vietnam In 2025

A Lot More American Fruits And Vegetables Imported By Vietnam In 2025

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Vietnam, a nation previously ravaged by war which eventually emerged as a major tourism destination in Southeast Asia, imported a lot more fruits and vegetables from the United States of America resulting in a jump of 67% to US$900 million, according to a news report by VnExpress. Vietnam’s exports to America, however, were not too great which resulted in a trade surplus of more than $350 million for America on fruits and vegetables.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the VnExpress news report. Some parts in boldface…

U.S. fruits and vegetables are pouring into Vietnam, with 2025 imports rising by nearly 67% to US$900 million, but Vietnamese exports to the U.S. are not keeping pace.

This marked a 10-fold jump in imports from the U.S. from a decade ago, with cherries, apples, grapes, and oranges being among the top fruits bought, according to Vietnam Customs.

Vietnam’s vegetable and fruit exports to the U.S. were worth $546 million last year, a minuscule 1.49% share in a market is dominated by suppliers such as Mexico, Canada and South American countries.

Dang Phuc Nguyen, general secretary of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Association, said the U.S. is a very large market but also one marked by stringent technical standards and also long geographical distance for Vietnam.

Vietnam’s position as the 13 largest fruit and vegetable supplier to the U.S. is owed to the great efforts made by businesses in recent years, he added.

There is room for growth as the list of fresh fruits permitted for export to the U.S. continues to expand, and now includes pomelo, mango, dragon fruit, longan, lychee, star apple, rambutan and, most recently, coconut.

Consumer trends in the U.S. are shifting toward novel fruits, health-oriented products and more deeply processed items such as frozen fruit, dried fruits and juices, with Vietnamese products like coconut, durian and pomelo becoming increasingly popular.

But exports do face many challenges. Starting this month the U.S. began tightening regulations on traceability and food safety, particularly with respect to pesticide residues.

Vietnamese oversight of planting area codes and packing facilities remains uneven, which threatens to bring warnings or even temporary import suspensions by the U.S.

The high logistics costs due to the distance make it difficult for Vietnamese fruits and vegetables to compete on price with suppliers close to the U.S. such as in Mexico, Peru or Thailand.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you consider Vietnam’s heavy importing of American fruits and vegetables in 2025 big economic victories for Trump’s America? What do you think is the main reason as to why Vietnam purchases so much fruits and vegetables from the United States? Do you think Trump’s tariffs are already helping American producers of fruits and vegetables?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

America Eyes Expansion In The Philippines As Demand For Food Intensifies

America Eyes Expansion In The Philippines As Demand For Food Intensifies

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Following its aggressive move to export more fresh fruits to the Philippines, the United States under President Donald Trump will ramp up its agricultural exports to the country in connection with strong Filipino demand for food, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

For the newcomers reading this, not even the softened economic growth of the Philippines dampened the Filipinos’ rising demand for food and the young population is a factor behind it. America sees opportunities to export more meat, seafood and other agricultural products to the Philippines.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of the Manila Bulletin. Some parts in boldface…

The United States (US) is gearing up to increase its agricultural exports to the Philippines, banking on the country’s growing food demand and potential economic growth.

In a Dec. 17 report, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) said the country was the ninth-largest market for US exporters last year, with agricultural goods valued at $3.5 billion.

The foreign agency expects continued growth in the years to come, especially given the country’s fast-growing economy, which ranked third among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries last year.

While it noted that the Philippine economy “continues to face risks from geopolitical tensions and trade policy uncertainties,” the USDA said it will likely remain resilient in the coming year.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) earlier lowered its forecast of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth from 5.4 percent to 5.1 percent this year, before rebounding to 5.6 percent in 2026.

The USDA also cited the easing of inflation and income inequality, driven by a growing population, as fueling demand for more agricultural commodities.

“With its rapid population growth, the Philippines has a young population that increasingly demands imported agricultural products,” it said.

According to the USDA, these market dynamics provide opportunities for US agricultural product exporters to broaden their presence in the country.

The report said products that have the “greatest potential for expansion” include dairy, poultry, ethanol (non-beverage), pork, beef, processed potatoes, confectionery and snack foods, and seafood.

Last year, the US was the top single-country supplier to the Philippines, with a market share of 18 percent, behind ASEAN at 31 percent.

The USDA noted that despite this strong performance, US exporters remain at a disadvantage relative to other exporters due to logistical and tariff challenges.

In this case, members of ASEAN benefit from lower tariffs and cheaper shipping costs, whereas the US is subject to slightly higher taxes under the most-favored nation tariff rates.

On top of this, the USDA said exporters also face higher costs due to government policies such as the sanitary and phytosanitary import clearance (SPSIC)—a document required before shipment of any agricultural product to the Philippines.

“SPSICs are valid for 20 to 90 days, depending on the commodity. The limited validity period adds costs and complicates the timing of exports, among other factors,” the report read.

In this view, the USDA emphasized the need for exporters to keep up to date with market trends to maintain the competitiveness of American products in the local market.

For instance, it noted that young Filipinos are more open to new flavors and experiences, which suppliers could consider when promoting their products.

For the full report of the US Department of Agriculture related to the news story, click here.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Are you looking forward to more American agricultural products plus seafood in the local markets? Do you think exporters of America are on the verge of becoming more competitive globally over the next 24 months?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Trump Announces $1,776 Christmas Bonus For American Troops

Trump Announces $1,776 Christmas Bonus For American Troops

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I believe that every nation has to reward its armed forces in return for the extensive services they rendered for the citizens and the government throughout the year. Just today, I learned via a Newsmax news report that US President Donald Trump announced that every active-duty member of the United States Armed Forces will receive a Christmas bonus worth $1,776 – called the Warrior Dividend – and already the checks are on their way to them (1.45 million service members).

Before proceeding with the news and details, let me remind you all that Christmas is all about Lord Jesus, and never about the character called Santa Claus. Lord Jesus is our Savior and the Hope of ALL nations! Wherever you are, celebrate Christmas with your family remembering Lord Jesus and living on with His peace. All the praise, honor and thanks to the Lord!

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Newsmax. Some parts in boldface…

President Donald Trump announced Wednesday night that every active-duty member of the U.S. armed forces will receive a $1,776 Christmas bonus, unveiling what he called the “Warrior Dividend” during a nationally televised prime-time address from the White House.

Trump said the one-time payment would go to roughly 1.45 million service members and is already being distributed, with checks scheduled to arrive before Christmas. The amount, Trump said, was deliberately chosen to honor America’s founding in 1776. That’s just ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary,  to be celebrate (throughout) the coming year.

“I am also proud to announce that 1,450,000 military service members will receive a special — we call Warrior Dividend — before Christmas, a Warrior Dividend in honor of our nation’s founding in 1776,” Trump said during the address, which was carried live by Newsmax from the White House Diplomatic Room.

“We are sending every soldier $1,776. The checks are already on the way,” Trump said. “Nobody deserves it more than our military. And I say congratulations to everybody.”

The Warrior Dividend emerged as a highlight of Trump’s year-end prime-time address, which the White House framed as a review of economic gains and fiscal changes achieved during his second term and promised gains in the (coming) years of the president’s second term. The speech focused heavily on revenue growth, job creation, and what Trump described as a reshaping of federal finances.

Trump tied the military bonus directly to increased government revenue generated through tariffs and recent legislation, arguing that stronger trade enforcement and changes in economic policy produced results that exceeded projections.

“We made a lot more money than anybody thought because of tariffs, and the bill helped us along,” Trump said.

The president cast the dividend as both a tangible reward and a symbolic gesture, presenting it as recognition of service members’ sacrifices while reinforcing claims of economic revival. Trump said the payment reflects an administration that prioritizes military families and uses economic strength to deliver direct benefits rather than expanding federal debt.

The prime-time address marked Trump’s final nationally televised speech of the year and served as a capstone to a broader messaging effort focused on economic performance. Trump used the speech to highlight tariff revenue, domestic manufacturing investment, and wage growth, arguing that those factors allowed the administration to deliver what he described as meaningful, immediate relief.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you find the Warrior Dividend a nice bonus for the active members of the United States Armed Forces? Are you looking forward to the 250th Independence Day of the America? What are your current feelings or opinions about the US Armed Forces right now?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Trump Highlights Bright Spots Of US Economy Under His Leadership

Trump Highlights Bright Spots Of US Economy Under His Leadership

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During his speech at a major business forum held in Miami, Florida, US President highlighted bright spots of the national economy that were realized during his administration this year, according to a news report by Breitbart. It should be remembered that Trump was re-elected last year and there was series of economic hardships (including the worst inflation in decades) during the four years of failed US President Joe Biden.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from Breitbart’s news report. Some parts in boldface…

President Donald Trump touted economic bright spots–including rising wages, lowering costs of goods, and falling interest rates–during his speech at the American Business Forum in Miami, Florida, on Wednesday.

Trump noted that under his presidency, miner wages have risen by an average of almost $5,000, construction worker wages have climbed by $2,200, and factory worker wages are up $1,300.

While wages are up, prices on many key goods are falling. Trump touted Walmart’s announcement that the average Thanksgiving Dinner will see a substantial drop this year. As Breitbart News reported late last month, Walmart’s bundle to feed 10 on Thanksgiving will run just under $40, averaging about $4 per person.

This is down from the average of $7 per person under last year’s pricing, when President Joe Biden was commander-in-chief on the heels of the 40-year-high inflation his and Democrat lawmakers’ economic policies brought upon Americans.

Trump also highlighted that egg prices are down 85 percent since March. In comparison, the Biden-Harris administration oversaw a 147 percent increase from the beginning of their administration through August 2024, just months before Trump’s historic election win on November 5, the first anniversary of which was Wednesday.

Other areas of dwindling costs Trump touted included energy prices and the typical new mortgage costs, which have dropped $3,000 this year. Moreover, interest rates are down to the 3.75-4 percent range after a second-quarter point rate cut this year at the end of October, as Breitbart News reported.

Trump touted job statistics as well on Wednesday, noting that 1.9 million more natural-born Americans are employed since he took office, and all new jobs created under him have been through the private sector.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you think the US economy is on the verge of taking off in connection with the many positive economic developments that happened since Trump returned as President? Are Americans becoming better off economically today than four years prior? 

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

Tren de Aragua Gang Eliminated By America At Sea

Tren de Aragua Gang Eliminated By America At Sea

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United States President Donald Trump really means business when it comes to protecting his nation and citizens as America eliminated a vessel from Venezuela operated by the Tren de Aragua gang carrying illegal drugs, according to a Newsmax news report. Already the Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago praised the strike.

For the newcomers reading this, Tren de Aragua is a transnational criminal organization from Venezuela and its members has spread throughout Latin America and even in the United States. Tren de Aragua is officially a terrorist organization.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the news report of Newsmax. Some parts in boldface.

President Donald Trump said Tuesday that the U.S. has carried out a strike in the southern Caribbean against a drug-carrying vessel that departed from Venezuela and was operated by the Tren de Aragua gang.

The president said 11 were killed in the operation.

“The strike occurred while the terrorists were at sea in International waters transporting illegal narcotics, heading to the United States,” Trump said in a social media posting. “No U.S. Forces were harmed in this strike. Please let this serve as notice to anybody even thinking about bringing drugs into the United States of America.”

Secretary of State Marco Rubio said earlier on X that the vessel was being operated by a “designated narco-terrorist organization.” He described the operation as a lethal strike.

Rubio addressed the strike on Tuesday shortly before he was scheduled to depart for Mexico and Ecuador for talks on drug cartels, security, tariffs and more.

The U.S. recently announced plans to boost its maritime force in the waters off Venezuela to combat threats from Latin American drug cartels.

The U.S. has not signaled any planned land incursion by the thousands of personnel being deployed. Still, President Nicolás Maduro’s government has responded by deploying troops along Venezuela’s coast and border with neighboring Colombia, as well as by urging Venezuelans to enlist in a civilian militia.

For clarity, posted below is the entire social media post by President Trump regarding the strike. Pay close attention to the details:

Earlier this morning, on my Orders, U.S. Military Forces conducted a kinetic strike against positively identified Tren de Aragua Narcoterrorists in the SOUTHCOM area of responsibility. TDA is a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization, operating under the control of Nicolas Maduro, responsible for mass murder, drug trafficking, sex trafficking, and acts of violence and terror across the United States and Western Hemisphere. The strike occurred while the terrorists were at sea in International waters transporting illegal narcotics, heading to the United States. The strike resulted in 11 terrorists killed in action. No U.S. Forces were harmed in this strike. Please let this serve as notice to anybody even thinking about bringing drugs into the United States of America. BEWARE! Thank you for your attention to this matter!!!!!!!!!!!

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this development? Do you like what the Trump administration is doing with regards to combatting terrorists and the wave of illegal drugs coming from Latin America? What will it take to apprehend all the remaining Tren de Aragua members in the United States? Do you think bringing down the Maduro regime in Venezuela can be achieved during Trump’s 2nd term?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco