Trump Administration Focuses on Alaska Gas Pipeline, Shipbuilding; IMF Notes Trade Slowdown

President Trump will highlight his administration's efforts to advance a $44 billion natural gas pipeline project in Alaska. The project aims to transport natural gas across the state for export, with potential partnerships involving Japan and South Korea. Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund, stated that trade is no longer driving global economic growth as strongly as before. She noted that policy changes from the US administration are prompting reactions from other countries. Many nations face weaker growth and high debt, with supply chains strained by the pandemic and geopolitical events. The Trump administration is reportedly preparing measures to bolster US shipbuilding to compete with China's industry dominance. Plans include actions such as imposing fees on Chinese-built ships and establishing a new office within the National Security Council.