Well, if your problem is trade, look to Germany. It has a VAT and a trade surplus.
I’ve lived in Germany, not just read about it. No thanks.
Germany has LOWER corporate tax than USA..
Most IMPORTANT — German manufacturing corporations are rife with Engineers in top positions, instead of accountants like in USA. You will lots of CEO’s and executives with doctorate in engineering in Germany. They take a longer term outlook instead of bottom line for the next quarter.