Industrials

North American manufacturers face unprecedented supply chain disruption as tariff implementation triggers massive inventory stockpiling and forces rapid supplier network reconfiguration.

After four decades in the chemical industry, with the last twenty years focused on supply chain management across the Midwest, I've witnessed more disruption in the past five years than in the previous thirty-five combined. As I prepare to pass the torch to the next generation of leaders, I want to share my perspective on what lies ahead for chemical industry supply chain challenges in 2025 and beyond.

The U.S. has significantly expanded its tariff policies since the initial implementation. Beginning with 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods, 10% on Canadian energy exports, and 10% on Chinese imports, the scope has now broadened substantially following the April 2nd "Economic Independence Day" announcement.