Letter from the US: The curse of strong energy exports
Rebuilding industry, energy dominance and lower energy costs are key goals that remain at odds in 2026
US President Donald Trump emphasised three key goals for his new administration during his 2024 election campaign: rebuilding domestic manufacturing, making the US an energy superpower, and bringing down consumer energy costs. These three goals are in conflict. The US cannot rebuild its manufacturing base and remain an energy superpower. It will take lower energy prices to expand the manufacturing base. While lower prices would benefit consumers—a key Trump goal—they would also depress energy production. The data and numerous economic studies make it clear that strong US energy exports have undermined and will continue to undermine efforts to boost US manufacturing. Experience shows it will
Also in this section
15 January 2026
Rebuilding industry, energy dominance and lower energy costs are key goals that remain at odds in 2026
14 January 2026
Chavez’s socialist reforms boosted state control but pushed knowledge and capital out of the sector, opening the way for the US shale revolution
14 January 2026
Leading economies in the region are using oil and gas revenues to fund mineral strategies and power hyperscale computing
14 January 2026
The South American country offers stable, transparent and high-potential opportunities and is now ready for fresh exploration and partnership
