The trade and economy mega-thread (2 Viewers)

[superchuck500]

Is there a trade deal with China? Is it really a deal or just a pull-back to status quo ante? Is Trump advancing US interests in this well-executed trade battle plan or was this poorly conceived from the start . . . and harmful?

I think the jury's still out, but I haven't seen that the Chinese are offering much in compromise - and it's not even clear if there's going to be an agreement. But it's clear they are working on something and I'm sure Trump will sell it as the greatest trade deal ever. The proof will be in the details.

 

[efil4]

“The president said Japan would invest “at my direction” $550 billion into the U.S. and would “open” its economy to American autos and rice. The 15% tax on imported Japanese goods is a meaningful drop from the 25% rate that Trump, in a recent letter to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, said would be levied starting Aug. 1.”

It’s also actually a “framework” does that mean this hasn’t actually been signed like the one with Vietnam still hasn’t?

I'm sure Ford and GM cant wait to try and sell cars in a market that they cant sell cars in.

#winning.

 

[MT15]

Its a lie.

Thats why no one is upset.

Just as is the 550B figure.

But what if it’s not? CBS, law firms, Columbia etc. have all capitulated to his smarmy wanna-be gangster moves.

 

[efil4]

Japan needs guaranteed supplies of LNG long term.

That was hammered out almost 2 months ago. (Late May...announced in early June)

And they signed LOI (letter of intent) and delivery isn't to begin til 2030. Plenty of time to reevaluate before signing an actual contract.

Can Alaska LNG Tip the Scales in Japan–US Tariff Talks? | JAPAN Forward

Can Japan use the Alaska LNG project as leverage to break the impasse in US tariff negotiations and strengthen its energy security?

japan-forward.com

There is zero guarantee the Alaksa LNG project even happens. And if it does, they won't take delivery until 2030.

 

[efil4]

But what if it’s not? CBS, law firms, Columbia etc. have all capitulated to his smarmy wanna-be gangster moves.

At his discretion? Meaning what? A company will invest or not invest if it makes financial sense. What is he going to do? Deny permit? Ban company?

Jobs lost?

Nah its bluster.

 

[MT15]

At his discretion? Meaning what? A company will invest or not invest if it makes financial sense. What is he going to do? Deny permit? Ban company?

Jobs lost?

Nah its bluster.

I could see him suggesting where and how he wants them to spend the money to reward cronies. And yeah, doing all those things if he gets ignored.

 

[Sendai]

That was hammered out almost 2 months ago. (Late May...announced in early June)

And they signed LOI (letter of intent) and delivery isn't to begin til 2030. Plenty of time to reevaluate before signing an actual contract.

Can Alaska LNG Tip the Scales in Japan–US Tariff Talks? | JAPAN Forward

Can Japan use the Alaska LNG project as leverage to break the impasse in US tariff negotiations and strengthen its energy security?

japan-forward.com

There is zero guarantee the Alaksa LNG project even happens. And if it does, they won't take delivery until 2030.

“

U.S. secures $200 Billion LNG deal with Japan’s JERA​

June 12, 2025
image: ©Ron and Patty Thomas iStock

A $200 Billion LNG deal: The Department of Energy and Department of the Interior have announced the finalisation of four long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) agreements between American producers and Japan’s JERA Co., Inc​

The deals are expected to add over $200 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product and support more than 50,000 American jobs.

Four 20-year LNG agreements finalised​

The agreements involve the purchase of up to 5.5 million tons of American LNG per year over the next two decades. They include signed contracts with NextDecade Corporation and Commonwealth LNG, as well as preliminary heads of agreement with Sempra Infrastructure and Cheniere Marketing LLC. All exports will originate from the Gulf Coast,further solidifying the region’s role as a key hub for global LNG supply.

Strengthening U.S.-Japan energy ties​

The deals highlight a growing energy partnership between the United States and Japan. As Japan’s largest power generation company, JERA’s agreement not only supports U.S. jobs and infrastructure investment but also strengthens energy security for both nations. It reaffirms the United States’ position as a top global LNG exporter and reflects the trust international buyers place in American energy producers.

Part of the Trump administration’s energy dominance agenda​

Under this agenda, regulatory hurdles that previously slowed down LNG export projects have been rolled back. The Department of Energy has resumed approvals for LNG exports to countries without free trade agreements, boosting international access to U.S. energy resources.
In total, the Department of Energy, under Secretary Chris Wright, has approved over 106 million tons per annum of non-FTA LNG export capacity, more than the current total capacity of the world’s second-largest exporter.

Interior department unlocks offshore energy potential​

Alongside LNG developments, the Department of the Interior is ramping up offshore energy production in the Gulf of America. Recent geological studies indicate the area holds 7.15 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, a 22.6% increase in recoverable reserves. To stimulate further investment, the Interior Department has introduced new financial assurance rules that free up billions in capital for exploration, leasing, and drilling activities.
Earlier this year, the department also disbursed over $353 million in energy revenues to Gulf Coast states and their local governments, further reinforcing the economic value of American energy production.

Infrastructure expansion made it easier​

To facilitate the rapid expansion of LNG export capacity, President Trump’s proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill” aims to expedite permitting for critical infrastructure projects. This legislation is expected to remove bottlenecks and streamline approval processes for LNG terminals and other key facilities, enabling quicker project launches and reducing red tape.
These newly finalised LNG agreements mark a majormilestone for U.S. energy policy. They promise substantial economic benefits at home and strengthen global energy partnerships abroad. With increased investment, job creation, and international influence, the U.S. is positioning itself as a reliable and dominant force in the global energy landscape.”

U.S. secures $200 Billion LNG deal with Japan’s JERA

The Department of Energy and Department of the Interior have announced the finalisation of four LNG agreements between American producers and Japan's JERA Co., Inc

www.openaccessgovernment.org

 

[efil4]

“

U.S. secures $200 Billion LNG deal with Japan’s JERA​

June 12, 2025
image: ©Ron and Patty Thomas iStock

A $200 Billion LNG deal: The Department of Energy and Department of the Interior have announced the finalisation of four long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) agreements between American producers and Japan’s JERA Co., Inc​

The deals are expected to add over $200 billion to the U.S. gross domestic product and support more than 50,000 American jobs.

Four 20-year LNG agreements finalised​

The agreements involve the purchase of up to 5.5 million tons of American LNG per year over the next two decades. They include signed contracts with NextDecade Corporation and Commonwealth LNG, as well as preliminary heads of agreement with Sempra Infrastructure and Cheniere Marketing LLC. All exports will originate from the Gulf Coast,further solidifying the region’s role as a key hub for global LNG supply.

Strengthening U.S.-Japan energy ties​

The deals highlight a growing energy partnership between the United States and Japan. As Japan’s largest power generation company, JERA’s agreement not only supports U.S. jobs and infrastructure investment but also strengthens energy security for both nations. It reaffirms the United States’ position as a top global LNG exporter and reflects the trust international buyers place in American energy producers.

Part of the Trump administration’s energy dominance agenda​

Under this agenda, regulatory hurdles that previously slowed down LNG export projects have been rolled back. The Department of Energy has resumed approvals for LNG exports to countries without free trade agreements, boosting international access to U.S. energy resources.
In total, the Department of Energy, under Secretary Chris Wright, has approved over 106 million tons per annum of non-FTA LNG export capacity, more than the current total capacity of the world’s second-largest exporter.

Interior department unlocks offshore energy potential​

Alongside LNG developments, the Department of the Interior is ramping up offshore energy production in the Gulf of America. Recent geological studies indicate the area holds 7.15 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, a 22.6% increase in recoverable reserves. To stimulate further investment, the Interior Department has introduced new financial assurance rules that free up billions in capital for exploration, leasing, and drilling activities.
Earlier this year, the department also disbursed over $353 million in energy revenues to Gulf Coast states and their local governments, further reinforcing the economic value of American energy production.

Infrastructure expansion made it easier​

To facilitate the rapid expansion of LNG export capacity, President Trump’s proposed “One Big Beautiful Bill” aims to expedite permitting for critical infrastructure projects. This legislation is expected to remove bottlenecks and streamline approval processes for LNG terminals and other key facilities, enabling quicker project launches and reducing red tape.
These newly finalised LNG agreements mark a majormilestone for U.S. energy policy. They promise substantial economic benefits at home and strengthen global energy partnerships abroad. With increased investment, job creation, and international influence, the U.S. is positioning itself as a reliable and dominant force in the global energy landscape.”

U.S. secures $200 Billion LNG deal with Japan’s JERA

The Department of Energy and Department of the Interior have announced the finalisation of four LNG agreements between American producers and Japan's JERA Co., Inc

www.openaccessgovernment.org

your link will not open- as i stated announced late may/early June. This was not part of the trade agreement.

does it state that JERA signed an HOA ( Heads of Agreement aka Letter of Intent ) which is non-binding?

So until 2027 delivery from Sempra Phase 2 in Lake Charles ( which hasnt started construction yet ), or construction of the Alaska LNG pipeline ( also not constructed yet til 2030 ) ill put this in the "might happen" column.

Not interested in what MIGHT happen, im interested is what IS happening and as of today, its simply non-binding agreements to purchase future LNG production IF those facilities come on-line.



JERA Co. Inc. has recently signed multiple non-binding heads of agreement (HOAs) for the sale and purchase of LNG, primarily with US companies. These deals aim to secure and diversify JERA's LNG supply sources, particularly from the US.

Specific agreements include:

• Sempra Infrastructure:
  .
  JERA signed an HOA with Sempra Infrastructure for a 20-year sale and purchase agreement for LNG, with a specific volume of 1.5 million tonnes per annum. This agreement is part of Sempra's efforts to develop, build, and operate modern energy infrastructure, including LNG facilities.
  
  
• Woodside Energy:
  .
  JERA signed an HOA with Woodside Energy for winter LNG supplies starting from 2027. This agreement involves the sale and purchase of LNG cargoes from Woodside's LNG portfolio, with a focus on securing supply for Japan's high-demand winter season.
  
  
• Cheniere Energy:
  .
  JERA also signed an HOA with Cheniere Energy for up to 1 million tonnes per annum of LNG from their Corpus Christi and Sabine Pass facilities

 

[MT15]

I got the link to open. It’s unattributed meaning no author is identified. It reads like a pure marketing press release from the Trump Admin, and no date for when the finalization occurred is given.

This source isn’t of high quality at all. You cannot tell from it when this deal was made.

 

[MT15]

Speaking of Ford, GM and other American automakers.

 

[efil4]

I got the link to open. It’s unattributed meaning no author is identified. It reads like a pure marketing press release from the Trump Admin, and no date for when the finalization occurred is given.

This source isn’t of high quality at all. You cannot tell from it when this deal was made.

the release is dated Jun 12 2025

well before trade deal.

 

[efil4]

Speaking of Ford, GM and other American automakers.

its astounding at just how little thought is given to all the peripheral industries of material and labor just to claim we are slapping Japan with 15% tariffs to Make America Great Again.

This is singularly the worst part of this administration and the guys like Bessent, Lutnick and Navarro are leading the gaslighting charge on every single working American.

oh well. Reap what you sow.

Good news is i hold NO GM/Chevrolet or Ford stock. ( I moved out Ford last year into HONDA lol )

 

[Sendai]

the release is dated Jun 12 2025

well before trade deal.

And it’s said nothing about the Alaska deal. Japan needs long term supplies of LNG. I’m sure this deal was part of the overall negotiations.

 

[MT15]

And it’s said nothing about the Alaska deal. Japan needs long term supplies of LNG. I’m sure this deal was part of the overall negotiations.

How could it be part of the negotiations that are only now in framework stage when it was finalized June 12?

Where did you get your info that this deal was part of the negotiations that are happening now?

 

[J-DONK]

How could it be part of the negotiations that are only now in framework stage when it was finalized June 12?

Where did you get your info that this deal was part of the negotiations that are happening now?

It's so dumb to tout this as some huge win.

Japan was already a willing customer wanting to buy more. It would be like the Biden admin crooning about increased LNG exports to Europe after the Russia-Ukraine war started.

 

[fooferdoggie]

At his discretion? Meaning what? A company will invest or not invest if it makes financial sense. What is he going to do? Deny permit? Ban company?

Jobs lost?

Nah its bluster.

his own cryptocurrency of course.

 

[MT15]

It's so dumb to tout this as some huge win.

Japan was already a willing customer wanting to buy more. It would be like the Biden admin crooning about increased LNG exports to Europe after the Russia-Ukraine war started.

Sadly, it’s looking like maybe they should have. Appealing to the lowest common denominator is working for Trump.

 

[efil4]

And it’s said nothing about the Alaska deal. Japan needs long term supplies of LNG. I’m sure this deal was part of the overall negotiations.

oh YOU are sure. but havent found one single item that corroborates.

huh.

Japan is fully aware of their need and negotiated their needs well before the negotiations on trade began in earnest.


JERA has been engaged in discussions with US companies regarding LNG procurement for several years. According to Yukio Kani, JERA's Global CEO and Chair, the latest deals to purchase up to 5.5 million tons per year of US LNG came after 15 months of strategic evaluation and commercial engagement. This implies that the formal negotiation period leading to the announced agreements lasted for 15 months, meaning talks were underway for a significant period.

https://www.reuters.com/business/en...purchases-diversify-energy-supply-2025-01-24/

So yeah im certain your assumption above is incorrect.

 

[Dragon]

It's so dumb to tout this as some huge win.

Japan was already a willing customer wanting to buy more. It would be like the Biden admin crooning about increased LNG exports to Europe after the Russia-Ukraine war started.

Canada may be in a strong position to take over part of the U.S.-Japan LNG deal set to begin in 2030. With several LNG terminals on Canada’s west coast (like LNG Canada and Cedar LNG) expected to be operational by then, Canada could reroute natural gas exports away from the U.S. and directly to Asian markets, including Japan.

This becomes especially relevant if the U.S. (under a future Trump admin or similar) tries to use LNG as political leverage. Japan might prefer Canadian LNG to avoid being caught in tariff wars or energy blackmail. Canada offers shorter shipping routes, political stability, and cleaner production — all strong advantages.

However, Canada’s overall export volume will still lag behind the U.S., and expanding capacity takes time due to regulatory and infrastructure hurdles. Still, Japan has options, and Canada could be a serious one if geopolitical risks with the U.S. escalate before the 2030 contract is finalized.