‘A Lot of Life Years Lost’: How NAFTA Shortened American Life Spans
A study tracks how the North American Free Trade Agreement and trade competition with Mexico led to earlier deaths for American factory workers.
Factories and Manufacturing
Ukraine Can Now Manufacture ‘China-Free’ Drones
The country has prioritized self-sufficiency in producing a crucial battlefield weapon, though weaning itself fully off cheaper Chinese components is difficult.
‘Liquor Capital of China’ Is Trying to Save Its Fortunes
Once celebrated for its fiery spirits, the town of Maotai has reeled from a bad Chinese economy, changing tastes and a crackdown on boozy official banquets.
The Unexpected Winners From Trump’s New Global Tariff
The president’s flat 10 percent tariff is most beneficial to nations that previously faced the highest rates. But it’s not clear how much that will prompt a new surge in imports.
With a New Nigeria Refinery, Africa’s Richest Man Wants ‘to Rescue the Country’
Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, has an ambitious vision for the continent’s most populous nation, but hurdles stand in his way.
The Looming Taiwan Chip Disaster That Silicon Valley Has Long Ignored
If China invades Taiwan and cuts off its chip exports to American companies, the tech industry and the U.S. economy would be crippled.
Canada Gives U.S. Arms Makers the Cold Shoulder on Military Spending
Canada plans to unveil a new strategy that will shift its current reliance on American companies to Canadian military suppliers.
Sad Horse Toy Goes Viral in China
A frowny-faced horse plushie, the result of a factory mistake, has become the internet’s unofficial mascot for the Lunar New Year. Fans say it resonates with overworked office employees.
Vietnam’s Leader Consolidates Power, Pledging ‘New Era of Prosperity’
To Lam, the head of Vietnam’s Communist Party, will also become president of the nation. His new stature comes with new risks.
China Announces Record Trade Surplus as Its Exports Flood World Markets
China’s surplus reached $1.19 trillion last year, a 20 percent increase from 2024, as Beijing kept the currency weak and pursued self-reliance to replace imports.