China’s production of cattle, sheep and poultry remained generally stable in 2024, while pig production declined, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics.
In 2024, the country’s production of pork, beef, mutton and poultry meat reached 96.63 million tonnes, representing a year-on-year increase of 0.2 percent.
Specifically, beef output rose 3.5 percent year on year to 7.79 million tonnes last year, while mutton output reached 5.18 million tonnes, down 2.5 percent.
Poultry meat production increased 3.8 percent year on year, and pork production dipped 1.5 percent.
China saw a significant surge in electric vehicle charging facilities in 2024, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers.
By the end of last year, the total number of electric vehicle charging poles in the country had reached 12.82 million, marking a 49.1 percent year-on-year increase.
Of these, public charging poles accounted for approximately 3.58 million, while private charging poles neared 9.24 million.
In 2024, China added more than 4.22 million electric vehicle charging poles.
The expansion of charging facilities comes amid surging demand for new energy vehicles (NEVs) in China, with both production and sales surpassing 12 million units in 2024.
China has maintained its position as the world’s leading NEV market for 10 consecutive years.
The newly installed capacity of renewable energy in 2024 accounted for 86 percent of China’s total newly installed power capacity, while the cumulative installed capacity of renewable energy made up a record high of 56 percent of the nation’s total, according to new data from the National Energy Administration (NEA).
The NEA data released Monday showed that China’s renewable energy sector added a new installed capacity of 373 million kilowatts in 2024, representing a year-on-year increase of 23 percent. Hydropower and wind power contributed 13.78 million kilowatts and 79.82 million kilowatts, respectively, while solar power and biomass power increased by 278 million kilowatts and 1.85 million kilowatts.
By the end of 2024, the cumulative installed capacity of the country’s renewable energy reached 1.889 billion kilowatts, a 25 percent increase from the previous year. Hydropower accounted for 436 million kilowatts, wind power for 521 million kilowatts, solar power for 887 million kilowatts, and biomass power for 46 million kilowatts.
Last year was the second year that China’s cumulative installed capacity of renewable energy power generation has exceeded 50 percent of the country’s total installed capacity. By the end of 2023, the renewable energy power generation capacity in China surpassed half of the total installed capacity for the first time in history.
Meanwhile, China’s renewable energy generation also reached 3.46 trillion kilowatt-hours in 2024, with a year-on-year rise of 19 percent, accounting for about 35 percent of the total electricity generated. T
The combined power generation from wind and solar energy amounted to 1.83 trillion kilowatt-hours in 2024, a 27 percent increase from 2023. The figure is roughly equivalent to the electricity consumption of the tertiary industry in 2024, and surpasses the residential electricity consumption, which stood at 1.49 trillion kilowatt-hours.
As China strives to achieve its dual carbon goals, the country is vigorously developing a green economy, with renewable energy as one of the engines.
Major infrastructure upgrades will see the Mornington roundabout replaced with traffic lights to improve road safety and traffic flow. The project will also include the construction of new ramps connecting the Tasman Highway with Gordons Hill Road.
The Albanese and Rockliff Governments have committed $100 million ($80 million and $20 million respectively) to the Mornington Roundabout Upgrade project, which will increase safety and efficiency through the known pinch point.
Objectives will be met by a multi-stage solution of improvements along the South Arm and Tasman Highways near Mornington.
The staged approach for planning, design and construction will be done over the coming years to minimise the impact on road users.
Work will start with building ramps to connect Gordons Hill Road with the Tasman Highway, allowing cars better access to Rosny from the highway while reducing traffic volumes at the Mornington roundabout.
Community consultation and design work on the ramps project will start this year, with construction planned for late 2026.
Once finished, other improvements near the Mornington roundabout will begin.
These future stages include:
Replacing the Mornington roundabout with traffic lights. Traffic lights were chosen as the best option of all considered, as they will improve traffic flow in all directions and will have fewer impacts and a smaller footprint;
Moving the off ramp from the Tasman Highway to South Arm Highway onto Cambridge Road, improving safety and travel efficiency both on the Tasman Highway and at the Mornington roundabout intersection;
Moving and changing the Mornington Road intersection with South Arm Highway. The intersection is located very close to the Mornington roundabout intersection, and this can cause queuing and safety issues; and
Safer access to bus stops by improving crossing points for people who walk, wheel or ride in the area.
The exact locations or layouts of these projects are yet to be decided, with further work required to develop design concept plans and engage with the community.
For more information, visit the Transport website here, following RoadsTAS on Facebook, or sign up to the State Roads email newsletter at transport.tas.gov.au/roadworks/stay_up_to_date.
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“The Mornington roundabout is a headache for local residents, causing congestion and safety concerns, which is why we invested an additional $50 million in our recent Budget to get this fixed.
“This is one of many priority projects we are working closely on with the Tasmanian Government to make the everyday lives of locals that little bit easier.”
Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Infrastructure Minister Kerry Vincent:
“This set of projects will improve safety and traffic flow for all those who travel through the Mornington area and beyond.
“Community consultation was a key part of developing this program. Through our consultation process we heard access to and from Mornington Road can be difficult. Moving this intersection will help with the flow of traffic through this area.
“We also know that queuing on the westbound Tasman Highway off-ramp to South Arm Highway regularly spills onto the Tasman Highway and so moving the ramp will provide more separation between the off-ramp and the Mornington roundabout intersection.
“These changes will assist in the continuing growth in this region.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Franklin Julie Collins:
“It’s long been known that the Mornington roundabout has been a dangerous stretch of road and as the Federal Member for Franklin, I have long been advocating for these vital upgrades.
“That is why the Albanese Labor Government has backed road safety and traffic flow and delivered $80 million towards the upgrade of this infrastructure project over our past two Federal Budgets.
“I’m pleased to see the Tasmanian Government start to get on with works on this project and look forward to the local community benefiting from improved safety and traffic flow.”
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force has arrested a 38-year-old male in relation to a domestic violence incident that occurred in Yirkkala on Monday night.
At 9.55pm, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre (JESCC) received reports that a 38-year-old male had been assaulted by his relative.
The offender allegedly assaulted the victim with a blunt object, resulting in serious injuries to his head.
The victim was conveyed to the Gove District Hospital, and subsequently transferred to Royal Darwin Hospital, where he remains in a critical but stable condition.
Police attended and established a crime scene.
The 38-year-old offender was arrested yesterday morning and remains in custody.
Investigations are ongoing and police urge anyone who witnessed the incident to call police on 131 444 and quote reference P25027509. Anonymous reports can also be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Support services for those affected by domestic or family violence are available, including 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) and Lifeline (13 11 14).
Photo and Video Chronology — January 28, 2025 — Episode 7 of Kīlauea eruption
Episode 7 of the ongoing Halemaʻumaʻu eruption started during the early evening on January 27 and ended abruptly at 10:47 a.m. HST on January 28.
Each episode of Halemaʻumaʻu lava fountaining since December 23, 2024, has continued for 13 hours to 8 days and episodes have been separated by pauses in eruptive activity lasting less than 24 hours to 12 days.
Episode 7 of the Halemaʻumaʻu eruption began at 6:42 p.m. HST on January 27, and continued through the night. Lava fountains fed a small flow onto the crater floor. This timelapse video is from the KWcam, which is located on the west caldera rim and looks east across Kaluapele (Kīlauea summit caldera) within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park.
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CAMP HANSEN, OKINAWA, JAPAN—U.S. Marines with 12th Littoral Anti-Air Battalion executed their first operational training on Wake Island from December 16 to 19, 2024, just days after the battalion’s activation ceremony. During the training, Marines executed a tactical air surveillance raid, which included a communications training exercise and the deployment of an AN/TPS-80 Radar.
While at Wake Island, the Marines participated in a memorial ceremony alongside U.S. Airmen with Eleventh Air Force Detachment 1 to honor the Marines, Sailors, and civilians who lost their lives during the Battle of Wake Island. The battalion’s motto, “Vigilance Above, Valor Below,” was evident in their training, symbolizing their focus on vigilance in forward air surveillance and honoring the valor of those who defended Wake Island during World War II.
“Being able to conduct this training at Wake Island is a powerful tribute to those who served here before us,” said Maj. John Boehles, the commander of 12th LAAB’s air control battery. “This exercise not only tested our operational skills but reminded us of the sacrifices made here, connecting our present mission to the valor of those who defended this ground.”
Marines reflected on the historical significance of the Battle of Wake Island during the memorial ceremony. “Standing at the site where so many Marines sacrificed their lives was humbling,” said Staff Sgt. Ricky Thomas, an air support operations operator with 12th LAAB. “It reminded me why we do what we do – honoring their legacy through our mission today.”
The unit fought in the Battle of Wake Island as the 1st Defense Battalion, responsible for coastal and air defense of advanced naval bases. It was deactivated in 1977 and has now been reactivated as one of the three subordinate elements of 12th Marine Littoral Regiment.
The 12th LAAB is organized, trained, and equipped to support sea control and sea denial operations within contested maritime spaces. As part of a modernized force, it integrates with the U.S. Navy, other Joint Force elements, and allied and partner forces.
“This training directly supports U.S. efforts to maintain regional stability and deter potential adversaries within the Indo-Pacific,” said Lt. Col. Caton, the commanding officer of 12th LAAB. “The battalion’s ability to deploy swiftly and conduct air surveillance just days after activating speaks to our unit’s enduring capabilities and strategic reach.”
As a key element of 12th Marine Littoral Regiment, the 12th LAAB is responsible for air control, air defense, air surveillance, and early warning. This training on Wake Island marks the first of many future operations and highlights the Marines’ capability and lethality within the first island chain.
As the Marines of 12th LAAB continue to refine their abilities, they remain steadfast in their commitment to ensuring peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region. This training marks the beginning of a new chapter, one that builds on a proud legacy while paving the way for future innovation and success.
Australia’s headline inflation rate dropped to a three-year low of 2.4% in the December quarter, according to the Consumer Price Index, adding to pressure for an interest rate cut by the Reserve Bank as soon as next month.
Since it peaked at 7.8% in December 2022, inflation has now fallen for seven out of eight quarters.
The closely watched core inflation measure dropped sharply to 3.2% from 3.6%, below market expectations, but the central bank is concerned about how sustainable the fall in inflation will be. Strength in the labour market is also weighing against the need for a cut in interest rates.
The long-running quarterly measure of the CPI is a better indicator than the more volatile monthly version. But the monthly rate is currently very similar; it ended the year at 2.5%.
Why did inflation fall?
A main reason headline inflation fell was the electricity rebates, which led to the price of electricity falling by 25.2% during 2024.
The fall in global oil prices, which led to petrol prices dropping 7.9% during 2024, also contributed to the decline in inflation.
The rental market is easing, with rents slowing from growth of 7.3% during 2023 to 6.4% during 2024. Increases in Commonwealth Rent Assistance contributed to the deceleration. This still leaves a lot of families facing rental stress.
Home builders offering discounts have moderated the “new dwellings” component of the CPI. It increased by only 2.9% during 2024, a marked deceleration from the growth rates of around 20% seen in 2022.
Urban transport fares also fell during 2024.
Working against the downward trend were increases to the tobacco excise, in addition to the standard indexation, which led to tobacco prices rising by 12.2% during 2024.
Insurance costs continue to rise, increasing by 11% during 2024. If the Californian fires lead to insurers revising up their assessment of the risks posed by climate change, insurance premia could rise further.
The decline in the Australian dollar, while not as alarming as some media reports would suggest, would have added to the price of some goods, particularly those imported from the United States or whose price is denominated in US dollars.
The “underlying” rate of inflation, which looks through temporary measures such as the electricity subsidies and is the preferred measure of the central bank, has also declined. It is now 3.2%.
Australia’s inflation performance is similar to that in comparable countries. It is slightly lower than inflation in the United Kingdom (2.5%) and the same as in the euro area. It is higher than in New Zealand (2.2%) and Canada (1.8%).
The fall in inflation to a rate significantly below the 3.5% at which wages are increasing means that the cost of living crisis is abating, although not yet over.
The quarterly increases in the CPI during 2024 were 1.0% in March and June and 0.2% in September and December. As the large increases in the first half of 2024 are replaced, the annual rate should drop further in coming quarters.
What does it mean for interest rates?
The current Reserve Bank board meets next on February 18. By the following meeting, on April 1, the decisions will be taken by the new monetary policy board, which will have two new members.
This is the second consecutive quarter that inflation has been within the Reserve Bank’s medium-term target band of 2–3%. It is now just below the mid-point of the band.
Inflation is also below the Bank’s latest forecasts of 2.6% (and 3.4% for the “underlying” rate).
But the bank has stated it will only cut interest rates when “members are confident that inflation is moving sustainably towards target”.
Inflation that is low just because of temporary electricity subsidies may not be regarded as ‘sustainable’. That is why the Bank places more emphasis on the underlying inflation measure. While not yet within the target band, underlying inflation has been steadily heading there and is now only just above it. This may be enough to give the Bank board members the confidence they seek. Financial markets now think so.
The government would dearly like to see rates coming down before the election, likely to be in April or May. It faces a nervous wait.
John Hawkins was formerly a senior economist at the Reserve Bank and Treasury.
SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Richard Bradley, age 36, of Syracuse, New York, pled guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Bryan Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), made the announcement.
As part of his guilty plea, Bradley admitted that, on September 9, 2024, he possessed a loaded rifle in his vehicle, which was parked at a gas station in East Syracuse. Bradley inadvertently fired the rifle several times, but did not strike anyone. As a result of his prior felony conviction for Criminal Mischief, Bradley could not lawfully possess a firearm.
Sentencing is scheduled for June 10, 2025, before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Glenn T. Suddaby. Bradley faces up to fifteen years in federal prison, along with a post-imprisonment term of supervised release of up to three years. He also could be fined up to $250,000, and will be required to forfeit the assault rifle to the United States. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.
ATF and the Manlius Police Department are investigating the case with assistance from the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica N. Carbone is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Joshua M. Rudd, deputy commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, traveled to Brunei Jan. 22-24, reinforcing the strong U.S.-Brunei relationship.
He met with senior government and military officials including Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defense II, the Honorable Pehin Datu Lailaraja Maj.Gen. (Ret.) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, Royal Brunei Armed Forces Commander, Maj. Gen. Dato Paduka Seri Haji Muhammad Haszaimi bin Bol Hassan, Royal Brunei Armed Forces Deputy Commander, Brig. Gen. Dato Seri Pahlawan Mohammad Sharif bin Dato Paduka Haji Ibrahim, Royal Brunei Air Force Commander Col. Haji Haszahaidi bin Haji Ahmad Daud, and U.S. Ambassador to Brunei Caryn R. McClelland.
During his visit, Rudd also attended briefings at Tuker Lines, where British Forces Brunei is headquartered, and spoke with students at the Defense Academy Royal Brunei Armed Forces. Each engagement focused on shared priorities of building deeper trust through people-to-people ties and increasing opportunities for military partnership.
The U.S. and Brunei established diplomatic relations in 1984, with defense cooperation serving as a cornerstone of the bilateral relationship over the last 40 years. Both nations cooperate in a variety of military exercises and exchanges, including the Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT), Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training (SEACAT), and the biennial Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercises.
USINDOPACOM is committed to enhancing stability in the Indo-Pacific region by promoting security cooperation, encouraging peaceful development, responding to contingencies, deterring aggression and, when necessary, fighting to win.
Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville
WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) issued the following statement in support of President Donald Trump’s executive order ending the chemical and surgical mutilation of children:
“We all know by now that so-called ‘gender-affirming care’ is anything but caring. There’s a reason it’s illegal for kids to buy alcohol, a lottery ticket, or join the military. Allowing our young people whose brains aren’t fully developed to undergo a life-altering, irreversible procedure is pure insanity. This isn’t about politics—this is about good and evil. I’m thankful for President Trump’s commonsense leadership to end this barbaric practice in our country once and for all.”
MORE:
ICYMI: Tuberville Joins Roundtable on Protecting Children and Women’s Sports
Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP, and Aging Committees.
Source: United States Senator for Texas John Cornyn
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) issued the following statement announcing he will serve as chair of the U.S. Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control during the 119th Congress:
“Deadly narcotics like fentanyl continue to ravage communities in Texas and across the nation, and an all-of-the-above approach is needed to fully root out these silent killers. I look forward to leveraging this new post to stifle the supply chain of Chinese precursors, target distributors in Latin America, and hold financiers of this deadly trade accountable for the massive loss of innocent American life they’re responsible for.”
Sen. Cornyn previously served as chair from 2019-2020 and ranking member from 2021-2022. During this time, the Caucus released a landmark report on the public health implications and risks of cannabis use, in addition to hosting hearings on international narcotics trafficking, the role of cartels in the illicit drug trade, and the drug overdose epidemic.
Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) tonight took to the Senate Floor to blast President Trump’s new order to halt the disbursement of trillions of dollars in federal funding, which was issued by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) but temporarily blocked late this afternoon until Monday by a federal judge. A portion of Senator Welch’s remarks can be found below:
“This is the test that we face: If we’re United States Senators and we believe that the Constitution is important—not in the abstract—but in the role it has played in preserving and protecting the freedom of all Americans, and we believe that freedom is preserved when there is a check and balance against unbridled power, then we are the ones that have to act in order to protect the well-being of this country against the illegal actions by a President who just doesn’t care, whether it’s legal or it isn’t.
“He worships power. And he’s creating a new culture—where if you worship community service, if you worship generosity, forgiveness, empathy…you’re a sucker. That’s the emotional message from President Trump. People in Vermont? They want and they do better, when they see injustice, they see suffering and they respond to it. They don’t intensify it.
“So, we have a decision as United States Senators to stand up for what this institution requires. And that is that we are a separate and coequal branch of government. And when the responsibilities are being subverted by an overreach by the executive, we resist. And we resist because it’s absolutely vital to the well-being of this country that our democracy prevail—three branches of government, checks and balances.
“But it’s really, fundamentally important to the well-being of the people we represent that their opportunity to live with stability, the ability to help their neighbors, to have confidence that promises are made or promises kept. That we defend the good work, the good will, integrity of the people of Vermont…of all of our 50 states.”
Watch the video here:
Read the Vermont Congressional Delegation’s statement on the impact of the order on Vermonters.
As Auckland temperatures rise, many tots and toddlers will enjoy cooling off in one of the regions’ pools this summer – even if they haven’t learnt the word pool yet. There are many toddler-friendly pools around Auckland ready to help your child make a splash, helping them to stay cool, learn life-long skills and gain confidence in the water.
Toddler pools and paddling pools are a great way for little ones to get comfortable around water. By having a dedicated pool, toddlers can have fun while learning water skills without the risk of colliding with older children. These pools are especially designed to make the swimming experience more enjoyable for little ones – the shallow water allows them to touch the bottom easily and often these pools are slightly warmer. Make sure to check the opening hours of toddler pools as they may be closed at times when adult pools are open.
Safety first
Toddlers are a handful in or out of the water, and safety is crucial when swimming with small children. Pools for toddlers make it easier for adults to focus their attention on little ones in the pool. Never turn your back on a toddler in the water – our safety rules state that a caregiver 17 years and over must be within arm’s reach of children under four at all times.
Children aged 5-10 must be supervised and adults must be close enough to provide immediate assistance.
Follow the child-to-adult ratios when supervising your children. One adult should accompany no more than two children aged four and under; for children aged 5-10 the ratio is four children to one adult. Please note that for hygiene reasons children under three must wear a waterproof swimming nappy – an easy way to keep the nappy in place is by dressing your child in togs over the top.
Learn a life skill
Babies as young as six months can take part in swimming lessons at Auckland Council’s pool and leisure centres. There is a dedicated babies class for infants aged six months to one year, and for kids aged 1-3 there are three toddler classes, based on your child’s ability to submerge on cue and confidence to swim independently. For kids aged 3-5 there are three dedicated pre-school classes. Unsure which class suits your child? Check out this swim level flow chart or book an assessment.
Unsure of your toddler’s swimming ability? Book an assessment to make sure you enroll your child in the right swimming class.
Six toddler pools to try
There are many toddler pools to choose from around the region, but here are a few of our favourites.
1. Lloyd Elsmore Park Pool and Leisure Centre
Located in Pakuranga, this is the perfect spot for kids and toddlers. The indoor splash pool is 33°C and features a fountain so littlies can play and get used to the feeling of water on their face. The learners’ pool features a wheelchair accessibility ramp and has depth ranges of 0.75m-0.9m. The facility also has an outdoor splashpad, which is another fun way to cool off during summer.
Toddlers and young ones are well catered for at Albany Stadium Pool. The dedicated toddler pool is heated to 31°C and features a play centre and slide – it’s wheelchair accessible and water wheelchairs are available. There’s also an indoor splash pad, over-the-pool rock climbing wall and a 20m programmes pool for swimming lessons.
Toddler pool hours:
Monday-Friday 30am-7pm
Saturday-Sunday 8am-7pm
Toddlers can enjoy the pool and splash play area at Albany Stadium Pool.
3. Ōtara Pool and Leisure Centre
This fantastic community facility features a toddlers’ pool heated to a comfy temperature of 32°C. A colourful water feature helps kids have fun while learning important water skills. The 15m learners’ pool is a great option for older children advancing with their swimming, and older kids can also enjoy the outdoor pool in the summer months.
Toddler pool hours:
Older children enjoying the learners’ pool at Ōtara Pool and Leisure Centre.
4. Grey Lynn Paddling Pool
This dedicated outdoor toddler pool is popular with tots during the summer months. The hexagonal pool has a maximum depth of 0.75m, is sheltered from the sun by shade sails and is patrolled by a lifeguard during opening hours. It’s right next to a playground so your kids will stay active wet or dry.
Toddler pool hours:
Shade sail offer extra sun protection at the outdoor Grey Lynn Paddling Pool.
5. Manurewa Pool and Leisure Centre
This all-ages centre features a toddlers’ splash pool with a fun umbrella fountain. The water is heated to a balmy 32°C. The learners’ pool features three lanes making it great for swim lessons, and it can also be accessed by a ramp.
Toddler pool hours:
Tots will enjoy the toddler splash pool at Manurewa Pool and Leisure Centre, heated to a balmy 32°C.
6. Moana Nui-a-Kiwa Pool and Leisure Centre
This facility in Māngere is fun central all year round. Indoors there’s a toddlers’ pool that’s 0.3-0.9m deep, and features a friendly orca sculpture and a splash pool with a bubble pit. The learners’ pool has a depth of 0.75-1.1m, great for lessons. Outdoors there’s a splash pad, and for older kids there’s a hydroslide and a dedicated bombing pool so your kids can learn to pop a manu.
Toddler pool hours:
Click here for a full list of Auckland Council pools and opening hours
San Mateo, Calif., January 28 (PST) /Tokyo, January 29 (JST), 2025 – Sony Group Corporation and Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), the company behind PlayStation, today announced the appointment of Hideaki Nishino to the role of President and CEO effective April 1, 2025.
Tokyo, Japan – Sony Group Corporation (“Sony”) today announced that Hiroki Totoki, currently Director, Representative Corporate Executive Officer, President, COO and CFO, has been newly appointed as Director, Representative Corporate Executive Officer, President and Chief Executive Officer, effective April 1, 2025.
Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) issued the following statement blasting the Trump Administration’s pause on all federal grants and loans and the dire impact it will have on Nevada.
“President Trump’s freeze on federal grants and funding has jeopardized key programs that many Nevadans rely on,” said Senator Rosen. “Because of this freeze, there is now chaos and confusion about the status of critical funding needed to support local law enforcement, veterans, businesses, widely used housing programs, and others. Make no mistake, I will fight back against this unconstitutional action and work to ensure that Nevada’s federal funding resumes to continue benefiting Nevadans.”
Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) released the following statement on their opposition to a procedural vote on the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act.
“As pro-Israel members committed to protecting and strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship, and ensuring Israel has every tool to defend itself, we are deeply troubled by the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) outrageous political targeting of Israel and its leaders. The Court’s false equivalence of Israel’s defense of its people with Hamas’s barbaric actions on October 7th is an affront to human conscience, deserving of both condemnation and severe consequences. We believe this judicial overreach must be countered forcefully, including through sanctions on those at the ICC directly responsible.
“Instead of directly punishing those responsible for the ICC’s reckless and irresponsible behavior, the House-passed ICC sanctions bill has overly broad language that would put our allies and U.S. private companies in the crosshairs. While we are eager to support a bill that would swiftly sanction those at the ICC responsible for its anti-Israel actions, in taking up the House bill today, Senate Republicans took a flawed, partisan approach. Despite our efforts, the bill’s sponsors did not allow us to make this bill stronger and more targeted. This is why we made the difficult decision to vote against a procedural motion on their bill, after serious consideration of the far-reaching, unintended consequences it would have. We urge our Republican colleagues to return to the negotiating table and reach a bipartisan agreement so that we can stand together in support of Israel through more targeted and effective legislation.”
Source: United States Senator for Wisconsin Tammy Baldwin
Published: 01.28.2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) today released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s recent decision to cut federal grants:
“I am already hearing from my constituents who are worried about funding being cut off for cops and firefighters, childcare, combatting the fentanyl crisis, food for kids, and so much more. We are talking about real people’s lives; real people’s ability to eat, stay safe, or live a healthy life is on the line. I want to be clear, Democrats and Republicans passed laws providing this funding for our kids, families, and communities, and ripping it away is an unconstitutional power grab. I will fight it at every step.”
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
January 28, 2025
Ahead of hearing, Sen. Warren wrote to Lutnick about deep ties to Tether, known as “outlaws’ favorite cryptocurrency”
“Your record of support for and financial involvement with Tether…raise significant questions about your own personal judgment and the conflicts of interest that you will have if you are confirmed as Commerce Secretary.”
Text of Letter (PDF)
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) sent a letter to Howard Lutnick, President Donald Trump’s nominee for Secretary of the Department of Commerce, ahead of his Wednesday confirmation hearing, probing his serious financial conflicts and personal and professional ties to the scandal-ridden cryptocurrency Tether.
“In particular, your deep involvement with and support for Tether, a known facilitator of criminal activity that has been described as ‘outlaws’ favorite cryptocurrency’ raises concerns about your judgment and ability to put the interests of the American people ahead of your own financial interests,” wrote Senator Warren.
Senator Warren requested information about Lutnick’s financial stake in Tether, any conversations with Trump administration officials about Tether, and whether his firm performed due diligence to confirm that Tether is in compliance with “Know Your Customer” rules in the Bank Secrecy Act, international sanctions, and anti-money laundering laws.
As CEO of Tether’s asset manager, Cantor Fitzgerald, which also reportedly holds a 5 percent stake in the cryptocurrency company, Lutnick played a significant role in Tether’s rise. Despite Tether’s clear ties to criminal activity — including financing North Korean nuclear weapons programs, Mexican drug cartels, Russian arms companies, Middle Eastern terrorist groups, and Chinese manufacturers of chemicals used to make fentanyl — Lutnick “‘vouched’ for Tether when ‘few others would.’”
Even after Trump’s election win and subsequent decision to nominate Lutnick as Commerce Secretary, Cantor Fitzgerald continued to deepen its ties to Tether, reportedly agreeing to serve as the backbone of Tether’s multi-billion dollar Bitcoin lending program. Lutnick seemingly used his role as Trump Transition co-chair to advance his own interests, including bringing Cantor Fitzgerald lobbyist Jeff Miller to Congressional meetings related to the transition. As Senator Warren noted, “even aides in the Trump administration were questioning [Lutnick’s] continued efforts to mix [his] business interests with [his] duties on the Trump transition team.”
“You cannot serve as a booster for Tether while impartially fulfilling the Department of Commerce’s mission to ‘create the conditions for economic growth and opportunity for all communities’ as ‘economic growth has taken on increased importance for national security,’” Senator Warren concluded.
After President Trump announced his decision to nominate Howard Lutnick as Commerce Secretary in November, Senator Warren said: “Donald Trump’s pick of a Wall Street CEO for Commerce Secretary is a win for the billionaire class at the expense of working people. The across-the-board tariff plan is a distraction from the MAGA scam to extend tax giveaways for giant corporations and billionaires like Howard Lutnick.”
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
Padilla Questions Defense Secretary Hegseth on Trump’s Purported Military Action to “Turn On” California Water
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) requested Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth clarify President Trump’s January 27th Truth Social post, which claimed that the U.S. military “entered” California and “turned on the water” flowing from Northern California to other parts of the state.
Even though California is delivering as much water to farms and cities as during the previous Trump Administration, the President claimed that he used his “Emergency Powers” as Commander-in-Chief to send the military to California to turn on the water. Contrary to misinformation circulated by President Trump, Southern California has record water storage on hand. Senator Padilla has pushed back against dangerous misinformation about the state’s water supply, which Trump is attempting to leverage to withhold disaster aid.
After President Trump was sworn in, federal pumping of water was briefly reduced due to outages for maintenance, which have since been restored to prior pumping levels.
“Clarity and transparency on these matters are crucial to ensure that the public is properly informed and that any actions comply with federal laws governing the use of the U.S. military within the United States,” wrote Senator Padilla.
Padilla asked Secretary Hegseth the following five clarifying questions in response to Trump’s post:
1. Which units of the U.S. Armed Forces have been assigned to this mission?
2. Specifically, where in California were they deployed? Please name the specific cities that were “entered” by U.S. Armed Forces, and the names and ownership of any facilities where troops were assigned.
3. When the President says members of the military “TURNED ON THE WATER,” what specific actions did U.S. servicemembers undertake to accomplish this mission?
4. To which specific “Emergency Powers” is the President referring to justify this mission?
5. Compared to the week of January 13, 2025, how much more water is now flowing through the federal pumps?
Full text of the letter is available here and below:
Dear Secretary Hegseth,
I write regarding President Trump’s January 27th post on Truth Social in which he wrote, “The United States Military just entered the Great State of California and, under Emergency Powers, TURNED ON THE WATER flowing abundantly from the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. The days of putting a Fake Environmental argument, over the PEOPLE, are OVER. Enjoy the water, California!!!”
Given this statement from the President and Commander-in-Chief of the U.S. Armed Forces, I ask that you respond in writing to the following questions:
1. Which units of the U.S. Armed Forces have been assigned to this mission?
2. Specifically, where in California were they deployed? Please name the specific cities that were “entered” by U.S. Armed Forces, and the names and ownership of any facilities where troops were assigned.
3. When the President says members of the military “TURNED ON THE WATER,” what specific actions did U.S. servicemembers undertake to accomplish this mission?
4. To which specific “Emergency Powers” is the President referring to justify this mission?
5. Compared to the week of January 13, 2025, how much more water is now flowing through the federal pumps?
Clarity and transparency on these matters are crucial to ensure that the public is properly informed and that any actions comply with federal laws governing the use of the U.S. military within the United States.
I look forward to your prompt response to these questions.
Sincerely,
Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)
Padilla Raises Alarm on Trump Administration Illegally Blocking Hundreds of Billions in Federal Support
Urges Budget Committee to Delay OMB Nominee
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), member of the Senate Budget Committee, issued the following statement after President Trump’s Office of Management and Budget (OMB) ordered federal agencies to freeze all congressionally approved federal grants and loans, including disaster relief for Californians:
“Donald Trump is illegally blocking hundreds of billions of dollars for essential federal programs to support families recovering after catastrophic fires, law enforcement agencies we rely on to keep our communities safe, and children and families who depend on federal child care and nutrition programs. All in his effort to pay for his tax cuts for large corporations and billionaires, like the ones he surrounded himself with during his inauguration. This overreach is unconstitutional and hurts the thousands of Californians who have been devastated by the recent fires. When Congress approves federal funds for programs to help communities, they are not optional: they are legal mandates.
“Americans in every corner of the country will feel the impact of Donald Trump’s unlawful directives. I am calling on my Republican colleagues to not confirm Russell Vought to be OMB Director until Trump reverses this reckless order.”
The sweeping directives in the Trump Administration’s memorandum are set to go into effect at 5 p.m. ET this evening. If implemented as written, the directives could block funding for California and national priorities including:
Disaster Relief: Public assistance and hazard mitigation grants from the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) to state, tribal, territorial, and local governments and non-profits to help communities quickly respond to, recover from, and prepare for major disasters will be halted — right as so many Southern California communities are struggling amid the recent fires.
Firefighting: Grants to support firefighters across the country will be halted. This includes grants that help states and localities purchase essential firefighting equipment.
Public Safety: Grants for law enforcement and homeland security activities will cease to go out the door, undermining public safety in every state and territory.
Infrastructure Projects: All federally-funded transportation projects — roads, bridges, public transit, and more — will be halted, including projects already under construction.
Homelessness/Housing: In the midst of a homelessness and housing crisis, the Trump Administration is freezing housing and homelessness funding, which will exacerbate our housing crisis.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Funding for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline that Senator Padilla significantly improved, as well as grants for mental health services, will be cut off.
Nutrition Assistance: Millions of American citizens who rely on nutrition assistance programs like school lunch programs will be left hungry as funding is cut off and non-profits who provide additional assistance lose federal funding.
Combating the Fentanyl Crisis: Funding for communities to address the substance use disorder crisis and combat the fentanyl crisis will be cut off.
Emergency Preparedness: Critical preparedness and response capability funding used to prepare for disasters, public health emergencies, and chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear events will be frozen.
Child Care: Child care programs across the country will not be able to access the funding they rely on to keep their doors open.
K-12 Schools: Federal funding for K-12 schools will be halted. School districts may not be able to access key formula grant funding including Title I, IDEA, Impact Aid, and Career and Technical Education, which would pose tremendous financial burdens on schools in the middle of the school year.
Biomedical Research: There will be immediate pauses on all funding for critical health research, including research on cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, and diabetes, as well as clinical trials at the NIH Clinical Center and all across the country — disrupting lifesaving and often time-sensitive research.
Higher Education and Job Training: Millions of students relying on federal student loans and federal work study will have their plans to pursue postsecondary education and further their careers thrown into chaos as federal financial aid disbursements are paused.
Health Services: Federal funding for community health centers that provide health care for over 30 million Americans will be immediately frozen, creating chaos for patients trying get their prescriptions, a regular checkup, and more.
Small Businesses: The Small Business Administration will have to halt loans to small businesses — including those in disaster-ravaged California communities.
Veterans Care: Federal grants to help veterans in rural areas access health care and grants to help veterans get other critical services, including suicide prevention resources, transition assistance, and housing for homeless veterans, will be cut off.
Tribes: Funding to tribes for basic government services like health care, public safety, programs, tribal schools, and food assistance will be halted.
Preventing Violence Against Women: All Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) grants, as well as funding for victims assistance and state and local police, will be cut off.
U.S. Competitiveness: Existing grants to support research for Artificial Intelligence and quantum computing will be halted and any new grant funding would be paused — undermining U.S. innovation and competitiveness with China and putting California jobs at risk.
Energy Jobs: Grants for critical energy projects nationwide will be cut off — halting billions of dollars in investment nationwide and jeopardizing good-paying American jobs. The Department of Energy Loan Program Office will halt loans in 28 states, impacting hundreds of thousands of construction and operations jobs.
Food Inspections: Some states will have to take on the full financial burden of ensuring the nation’s meat supply is safe if federal cooperative agreements for meat inspection are halted.
Support for Servicemembers: Support for a host of Department of Defense financial assistance and grant programs supporting servicemembers and their families will be halted, including the Fisher House, Impact Aid, community noise mitigation, ROTC language training, STEM programs, and the USO.
Military Readiness: Grants and other assistance appropriated to strengthen military effectiveness and defense capacity will be halted, including Defense Production Act support for the defense industrial base, basic research grants necessary to advance key technologies, and small business support to strengthen supply chains.
Source: United States Senator for Alaska Lisa Murkowski
01.28.25
Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) released the following statement on federal funding:
“Alaskans have understandably been reaching out to my office all day, asking for clarity about what OMB’s memo ordering a pause in grants, loans, and other federal financial assistance means for them. At this point, we don’t have any more direction than what has been reported. My staff is actively tracking impacted projects and services in Alaska, and working to identify those that most urgently need to be brought to the administration’s attention. Please pass along any information you can to my office directly about projects and services that are being affected, and thank you for your patience as we work alongside you to navigate next steps.”
On Tuesday afternoon, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) released guidance and a Q&A that can be referenced for assistance as the situation evolves. Alaskans can contact Senator Murkowski’s office using this link to report additional concerns.
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
Washington (January 28, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement today on President Trump’s pardons for violent January 6 insurrectionists. Yesterday, Senator Markey joined the Senate Democratic caucus in introducing a resolution condemning the pardons of individuals who were found guilty of assaulting Capitol Police Officers.
“On January 6, 2021, dedicated officers of the U.S. Capitol Police were forced to protect members of Congress in medieval-style combat as a vicious mob armed with firearms, bear spray, and metal barricades forced its way into the U.S. Capitol. Officers died as a result of the insurrection, and many more were left beaten and bruised. Donald Trump pardoned the January 6 insurrectionists, including violent felons, in one swoop—a disgraceful insult not only to our democracy, but to the law enforcement officers who show up every day to protect and serve us,” said Senator Markey. “I’m astounded by the silence among my Republican colleagues. They claim to ‘back the blue’ but now they laud the violent criminals who left our officers black and blue on January 6. We now know that the Republican party is no longer the party of ‘law and order,’ but the party of ‘chaos and disorder.’ Donald Trump’s pardons are a dangerous and shameful abuse of presidential power. We should all be united in denouncing them.”
Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
01.28.25
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) released the following statement regarding the temporary pause on the distribution of some federal funds, pending a review by the Trump administration:
“My office has heard from many Alaskans concerned about the Trump administration’s pause on the distribution of federal funds. My team and I are digging into the details of how this pause impacts Alaska and closely monitoring the situation.
“The pause is more limited in scope than some initial media reports suggested, but I still have concerns on how it can negatively impact Alaskans. The pause is being conducted to review compliance with several of the President’s executive orders, particularly those related to foreign aid, illegal immigration and DEI initiatives. According to the White House, the pause does not affect direct benefits to Americans and Alaskans—including Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, SNAP, Pell grants, Head Start, veterans’ benefits, rental assistance and similar programs.
“We will continue to work closely with Alaskans who may be impacted and share any additional guidance provided by the Office of Management and Budget. My team and I will continue to weigh in with the Trump administration on behalf of impacted Alaskans and our communities. If any individual Alaskan or Alaska organization is concerned about a particular grant or funding source, I encourage them to reach out to my office at 202.224.3004.”
The Office of Management and Budget released an initial guidance document which can be viewed here.
Source: United States Senator for Alaska Dan Sullivan
01.28.25
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) reminded Alaskans today of the approaching February 28th deadline for high school students across Alaska to participate in a public awareness campaign about the dangers of fentanyl in their community. The competition is part of the statewide “One Pill Can Kill – Alaska” public awareness campaign that Senator Sullivan launched in May of 2024. Since the campaign began, Senator Sullivan has highlighted the One Pill Can Kill campaign in community visits, roundtables and student listening sessions across the state, including in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Wasilla, Ketchikan, Cordova, Valdez, Glenallen, Kotzebue and Utqiagvik. More information on the competition can be found below and by clicking here.
“Fighting the deadly fentanyl crisis in our state means enlisting the help of all Alaskans,” Senator Sullivan said. “After hearing from youth across our state, it became clear that in order for this campaign to succeed, young Alaskans in particular would need to play a big role. Young Alaskans are impacted by this crisis—and they’re motivated to action. By harnessing the creative and bright minds of Alaska’s next generation of leaders, we can finally turn the tide against this horrendous plague on our communities.”
Competition Details:
What: We are asking students tolaunch a “One Pill Can Kill” media campaign to reach high school students. The campaign can reach students in a variety of ways: posters in hallways, advertisements in student newspapers, or videos on social media are a few examples. Creativity is key.
The campaigns should use the “One Pill Can Kill” messaging and highlight the dangers of fentanyl, the risks of non-prescription drug use, and the importance of staying informed and seeking help.
Who: This competition is open to groups of high school students in Alaska. Schools are encouraged to submit one campaign per school but may submit more. Each entry must include at least two students’ participation. Home schooled students may also participate by launching a media campaign that reaches youth in locations other than school, including online.
How: After launching the campaign, contestants must submit a report to Senator Sullivan’s communications team explaining their campaign, how it was executed and what they learned. Final submissions can be sent to helen_martin@sullivan.senate.gov. Keep in mind the judging criteria below. Examples of the campaign’s media materials must be included or linked to in the report.
Judging Criteria:
Effectiveness – Is the campaign effective?
Targeted Audience – Does the campaign reach the intended audience?
Messaging – Does the campaign incorporate the theme of “One Pill Can Kill – Alaska?”
Creativity – Is the campaign innovative?
Accuracy – Are the facts about fentanyl and its risks correct and well-researched?
Lessons Learned – Does the report explain what they learned from the experience?
Prize:
While all campaigns will be featured on Senator Sullivan’s website, the winning campaign will work with Senator Sullivan’s communications team to design public service announcements featured as part of the statewide “One Pill Can Kill – Alaska” campaign. It will be shared on Senator Sullivan’s social media channels and offered for distribution to local television, radio, and print media across Alaska.
nited Nations Secretary-General António Guterres announced today the appointment of Lieutenant General Ulisses De Mesquita Gomes of Brazil as Force Commander of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).
Lieutenant General Gomes succeeds Acting Force Commander Major General Khar Diouf of Senegal, to whom the Secretary-General is grateful for his dedication and service.
Lieutenant General Gomes brings to the position 35 years of experience in crisis response, conflict management and peacekeeping. He has both operational and strategic expertise as well as diplomatic experience. His last position was with his national military, where he served as Deputy Chief of Army Logistics Command. Prior to that, he was the Brazilian Military Attaché to the United States of America.
He previously served as the 7th Infantry Brigade Commander in Brazil, the Defence Adviser of the Minister of Strategic Affairs of the Brazilian Government and the Chief of Planning and Operations of the 11th Infantry Brigade. His international experience includes his deployment with the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) (2008-2009) and his appointment as the Chief of the Current Military Operations Service and Policy & Doctrine Team in the Office of Military Affairs of the UN Department of Peace Operations (2017-2019).
Lieutenant General Gomes holds a bachelor’s degree in law from the Federal University, Brazil, and a master’s degree in military science and law from the Brazilian Army Staff College. He is fluent in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish.
Source: African Development Bank Group African energy and finance ministers welcomed an ambitious new partnership to transform the continent’s power sector at the Mission 300 Africa Energy Summit in Dar es Salaam on January 27, while highlighting their countries’ distinct paths toward achieving universal access to electricity.
US President Donald Trump isn’t happy about the way some countries are taxing American citizens and companies. He has made clear he’s willing to retaliate, threatening to double taxes for their own citizens and companies.
Can Trump really do that, unilaterally, as president? It turns out he can, under a 90-year-old provision of the US tax code – Section 891.
In an executive memo signed on January 20 outlining his “America First Trade Policy”, Trump instructed US Treasury to:
investigate whether any foreign country subjects United States citizens or corporations to discriminatory or extraterritorial taxes pursuant to Section 891 of Title 26, United States Code.
A sweeping power
Section 891 of the US Internal Revenue Code is short, but it is in sweeping terms.
If the president finds that US citizens or corporations are being subjected to “discriminatory or extraterritorial taxes” under the laws of any foreign country, he “shall so proclaim” this. US income tax rates on the citizens or corporations of that country are then automatically doubled.
The extra tax that could be collected is capped at 80% of the US taxable income of the taxpayer. The president can revoke a proclamation, if the foreign country reverses its “discriminatory or extraterritorial” taxation.
Section 891 is an extraordinary provision – but it has never been applied. As far as I know, no other country has legislated such a rule. Importantly, it would only apply to a person or business subject to income taxation by the US.
Take, for example, a foreign national earning a wage in the US. If this individual’s home country became subject to a proclamation under Section 891, their individual tax rate in the US would be doubled – to as much as 74%.
A foreign company earning taxable profits in the US would face a doubling of the company tax rate from 21% to 42%.
A bit of history
A version of Section 891 has been in the US tax code since 1934, an earlier troubled time of tax disputes and economic depression.
It was signed into law by Democratic President Franklin D. Roosevelt on May 10 1934, amid a tax dispute between the US and France.
US President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Section 891 into law in 1934, putting pressure on France to end a tax dispute. Vincenzo Laviosa/Wikimedia Commons
According to US tax historian Joseph Thorndike, the move followed attempts by France to levy additional taxes on US companies operating there, beginning in the mid-1920s.
France had tried to use an 1873 law to tax US companies operating in France on profits earned in the parent company back in the US, and in other subsidiaries around the world, not just the French company profits.
The aim was to counter international profit-shifting, which could be used to reduce the tax payable by US subsidiaries operating in France by claiming deductions or shifting income to other group companies outside France.
The dispute was long-standing and France tried to assess taxes going back decades for some US companies. The potentially massive tax bill (it seems the tax was never actually collected) became a geopolitical issue, and the companies asked the US government to intervene on their behalf.
Thorndike explains that a bilateral tax treaty was negotiated between the US and France to remedy this “double tax” situation. But the French legislature refused to ratify it.
In retaliation, US Congress passed Section 891, and six months later, France ratified its bilateral tax treaty with the US.
Parallels with today
In 1934, there were no digital multinational enterprises like Meta or Google. But that tax dispute nevertheless has parallels with modern concerns about taxing companies internationally.
The French government was trying, with a rather heavy hand, to counter international profit-shifting by large US multinationals.
Section 891 was re-enacted in later US tax codes, up to today, with minor amendments and no attempt to invoke it. It has remained in the background as a potential exercise of US fiscal and market power, supported by both sides of US politics.
Tax professor Itai Grinberg, who worked in the Biden administration on the OECD tax deal, suggested it could be applied to the European Union decision that taxes Apple in Ireland.
The US tech giants are only the latest in a long line of powerful American multinational corporations. Tada Images/Shutterstock
What might Trump do?
President Trump has specifically targeted the OECD global tax negotiations with this threat, just a month after Australia has legislated the global minimum tax under “Pillar Two” of the OECD Global Tax Deal.
The OECD deal aims to ensure large multinational enterprises pay a minimum 15% effective tax rate in all the jurisdictions in which they operate, by applying a top-up tax and under-taxed profit tax.
Trump asserted in a memorandum that the OECD Global Tax Deal is “extraterritorial”, instructing the US Secretary of the Treasury and the US Trade Representative to investigate it.
Could Australia be singled out?
Trump’s memorandum also ordered an investigation into “other discriminatory foreign tax practices” that may harm US companies.
This includes whether any foreign countries are not complying with their US tax treaties or have, or are likely to put in place, any tax rules that “disproportionately affect American companies”.
Under this proposal, digital platforms (many of which are US-owned) would have to pay a new levy, which could be offset if they negotiate or renew deals with Australian news media publishers to pay for hosting news content.
Section 891 could apply to such taxes if they were found by Trump to be “discriminatory” against US companies. What “discriminatory” means is not clear.
Its been suggested that foreign citizens or companies could be protected from Section 891 by their country’s tax treaty with the US, under the standard approach that a later treaty prevails over an older code section. But Australia’s tax treaty with the US took effect in 1983, before the most recent re-enactment of Section 891 in the US tax code.
Miranda Stewart receives funding from the Australian Research Council. Miranda is on the Permanent Scientific Committee of the International Fiscal Association.
