LNG Exports, the Trade Deficit, and Tin Mill Steel
Feb 9, 2024
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The podcast discusses the temporary pause on LNG exports, the significance of LNG exports to the US economy, the impact of COVID-19 on the supply chain, the US International Trade Commission's decision on anti-dumping duties on tin mill steel, and the economic impact of the Super Bowl.
The Biden administration has temporarily paused Department of Energy authorizations for LNG exports to non-free trade agreement countries, aligning with their climate and economic goals.
The latest US trade data shows a significant decrease in the trade deficit, primarily due to growth in service exports, indicating competitiveness in global markets.
Deep dives
Biden Administration Pauses LNG Exports
The Biden administration has announced a temporary pause on pending Department of Energy (DOE) authorizations for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to countries without a free trade agreement with the United States. This decision has sparked controversy as it aligns with the administration's climate and economic goals. The pause does not affect existing permits or construction, and the duration of the pause is yet to be determined. While this may be seen as a win for environmentalists, the impact on US natural gas consumption is minimal, as LNG exports represent only 0.7% of total consumption.
US Trade Data Shows Decline in Trade Deficit
The latest US trade data indicates a narrowing of the trade deficit, the largest reduction since 2009. The decrease is primarily attributed to significant growth in service exports, reflecting a shift in consumer demand. In 2023, US goods and services deficit decreased by almost 19%. Exports increased by $35 billion (1.2%), while imports contracted by over $142 billion (3.6%). This contraction in the trade deficit is seen as a positive sign for the US economy, indicating competitiveness in global markets, particularly in the services sector.
US International Trade Commission Strikes Down Anti-dumping Duties on Tin Mill Steel
The US International Trade Commission (USITC) voted unanimously to strike down anti-dumping duties on tin mill steel from Canada, China, Germany, and South Korea, finding that the imports do not harm domestic steel producers. This decision is noteworthy as the USITC rarely votes negative on anti-dumping cases. The ruling highlights the strict criteria for proving injury under US trade laws, with dumping margins being just one aspect. The decision has implications for consumer prices, but the USITC's mandate focuses solely on injury to the domestic industry rather than the broader economic impact.