After The Fact

TSMC's Billion-Dollar Bet, Trade Tensions, and a Call for Peace

March 03, 2025

President Trump announced a $100 billion investment from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) in Arizona, touted as the largest foreign direct investment in U.S. history. This investment will create thousands of jobs and boost America's dominance in artificial intelligence. The President also announced 25% tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico, citing drug trafficking and national security concerns. First Lady Melania Trump advocated for the "Take It Down Act" to combat online child exploitation, while President Trump increased tariffs on Chinese goods related to synthetic opioids. He also addressed the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, expressing a desire for a swift resolution and criticizing past administrations' handling of Russia. Finally, the President sent Ramadan greetings.

Tariffs and Trade: A Protectionist Approach

President Trump imposed 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, citing drug trafficking and national security concerns as justification under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).

President Trump increased existing tariffs on goods from China by 10%, resulting in a 20% tariff on products linked to synthetic opioids. This action was taken in response to what the administration deems inadequate action from the Chinese government to address the flow of synthetic opioids into the United States. This action was also justified using the IEEPA.

President Trump secured a $100 billion investment from TSMC in Arizona for semiconductor chip manufacturing. This was done in part by offering TSMC an exemption from the new tariffs.

Focus on Online Safety for Children

First Lady Melania Trump hosted a roundtable discussion advocating for the "Take It Down Act" (S.146/H.R.633). This bill aims to protect children online by enabling the removal of non-consensual intimate imagery.

The Ukraine Conflict and U.S. Foreign Policy

President Trump expressed a desire for a swift end to the war in Ukraine and criticized past administrations' handling of Russia, claiming they were taken advantage of by Russia.

Other Noteworthy Items

President Trump celebrated the TSMC investment as a win for the American economy and job creation.

The President extended greetings for Ramadan.

Last updated at 3/4/2025 7:00 PM

- After The Fact Editorial Team