As the dust settles following the pandemic era of disruptions, all companies are noticing a paradigm shift: where once supply chain management was an under-the-radar part of business, it’s now front and center. The government is taking notice, too, and you can expect increased focus on the role of supply chains when it comes to national security. Essentially, expect heavy pressure to map out your supply chain.
As a manufacturer, this means knowing where all your materials, components and sub-components originate. Using these maps, you can then consider tariffs and trade agreements, which are in constant flux as the government considers national security. If your supply chain extends to China, in particular, create a supply chain map and then consider alternatives that might not be under difficult trade agreements. The map will also come in handy as new regulations come down the pike. For instance—the FCC has banned the import and sales of devices produced in certain sectors of China with documented human rights violations. Having the ability to pivot as these scenarios change will be key to running an agile supply chain in the coming year.
