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Trump Finalizes US-Japan Trade Deal with 15% Tariffs

President Donald Trump has finalized a significant trade deal with Japan, imposing a 15% tariff on most Japanese imports as part of a broader $550 billion investment and trade agreement aimed at balancing U.S.-Japan economic relations. Alongside this, the U.S. plans to introduce substantial tariffs on semiconductor imports to protect domestic manufacturing, though key companies like Apple that invest heavily in the U.S. will be exempted from these duties. Meanwhile, Argentina’s President Javier Milei is strategically focusing on unlocking the country’s vast copper reserves to fuel economic reforms and attract investment amidst broader efforts to stabilize and grow the South American economy.

President Donald Trump formalized a trade agreement with Japan that imposes a baseline tariff of 15% on most Japanese imports, including automobiles—down from the previous 27.5% tariff—offering relief to Japan’s auto industry. As part of the agreement, Japan committed to investing $550 billion in projects selected by the U.S. government and agreed to increase purchases of American agricultural products, commercial aircraft, and defense equipment. The tariff adjustments apply retroactively to goods shipped after August 7, 2025. Furthermore, Trump announced plans to impose “fairly substantial” tariffs on semiconductor imports, exempting firms like Apple that invest heavily in U.S. manufacturing, thereby incentivizing domestic production and protecting strategic industries.
Meanwhile, Argentina’s President Javier Milei is focusing on unlocking the country’s vast copper potential to drive economic reforms. Under the Large Investment Incentives Regime (RIGI), Argentina offers tax stability and attractive incentives to mining projects, attracting over $30 billion in mining applications. Argentina aims to capitalize on rising global demand for copper, projecting a significant economic impact and positioning itself as a future top copper producer, despite challenges including infrastructure bottlenecks and environmental concerns.

Under the Large Investment Incentives Regime (RIGI), Argentina offers tax stability and attractive incentives to mining projects, attracting over $30 billion in mining applications. Argentina aims to capitalize on rising global demand for copper, projecting a significant economic impact and positioning itself as a future top copper producer, despite challenges including infrastructure bottlenecks and environmental concerns.In Indonesia, authorities detained former Education Minister and Gojek co-founder Nadiem Makarim on graft charges related to alleged corruption in the procurement of Google Chromebooks for remote learning programs. Makarim was arrested for his alleged supervisory role during his tenure when schools transitioned to online learning amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The case alleges misuse of authority resulting in a state loss estimated at about $115 million. Makarim denied wrongdoing, asserting confidence that the truth will prevail. This blend of trade, economic, and governance developments highlights ongoing shifts in global trade relationships, resource-driven reforms, and anti-corruption efforts shaping international and domestic landscapes.