Investment Plans - Japan plans to invest approximately $36 billion in US oil, gas, and critical mineral projects as part of a trade deal with the US [1][3] - The first wave of investments includes a power plant in Portsmouth, Ohio, which is touted as the largest natural gas-fired generating facility in US history, generating 9.2 gigawatts of electricity annually [4] Strategic Importance - The investments aim to strengthen Japan's economic ties with the US amid ongoing tensions with China over Taiwan, enhancing both countries' economic security [2][6] - The projects are part of a larger commitment of $550 billion from Japan under the trade deal, which also includes a reduction in US tariffs on Japanese exports [3] Specific Projects - The investment includes a deepwater crude oil export facility off the Texas coast and a synthetic industrial diamond manufacturing site in Georgia, valued at about $600 million [3][5] - The industrial diamond project is intended to ensure domestic production of critical materials for advanced manufacturing and semiconductors, reducing reliance on foreign sources [5][8] Economic Context - Japan's exports rose nearly 17% in January, partly due to increased exports to China, despite existing tensions [9] - The trade deal and associated investments are seen as a strategic move to enhance US energy dominance and industrial capacity while providing returns to Japan [9]