World Perspectives

Japan in Spades; Ponics for Work; Agrifoolish

Japan Almost in Spades Donald Trump abhors trade deficits, but he found his more accurate language during a state visit to Japan this week in citing a legacy of incomplete trade reciprocity. Unfortunately, instead of offering facts like the need to lower agricultural trade barriers, he pursued the same interventionist, state-minded language as his target countries by calling for Japan to buy more U.S. military equipment and make cars in America. While the U.S. and Japan agreed to “accelerate engagement in trade,” this was encased in the language of state-driven mercantilism. The world trading system needs uncompromising reciprocity, not Manhattan-style baksheesh.   Ponics for Work Once again, this week we are treated wi...

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From WPI Consulting

Weighing in on strategic realignment

WPI’s team was retained by the governing board of a U.S. industry organization to review a decision, reached by vote, to invest significant assets into the development and management of an export trading company. WPI’s team conducted a formal review of this decision and concluded that the current level of market saturation would limit the benefits of the investment. Based on WPI’s analysis and recommended actions, the board subsequently reversed its decision and undertook a strategic planning effort to identify more impactful investments. On behalf of numerous clients, WPI has not only assisted in identifying strategic paths but also advised their implementation.

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