Global supply chains, once efficient and predictable, were disrupted in early 2025 by a wave of tariff wars, revealing the fragility of international networks. Rising costs, shifting sourcing, and disrupted trade routes created inventory pressures, delivery delays, and financial strain, with sectors like electronics, automotive, consumer goods, and agriculture particularly affected. Companies responded by relocating production, adopting digital and automated solutions, and diversifying suppliers to build resilience.
The analysis highlights that adaptive, digitally enabled, and diversified supply-chain strategies are essential to navigate policy-driven shocks while sustaining growth, efficiency, and stability.
Key Highlights:
- U.S. GDP fell 1%; major economies also declined. Global GDP growth slowed to 3%, with a 4.9% drop in trade volumes and 0.58% lower global employment.
- U.S. steel prices rose 18%; copper stockpiling surged. Many firms fully passed tariff-driven cost increases to customers.
- India’s U.S. exports fell to $8B; Brazil saw a 22% YoY export decline, especially in agriculture.
- Traditional sourcing and trade routes are disrupted, causing delays, material shortages, and logistical strain.
About The Author
Partha Sarathi Sengupta
Partha has 20+ years of experience delivering impactful, data-driven solutions to clients across business and consumer segments. He specializes in strategic and competitive analysis, helping clients win in complex marketplaces. Before joining HBGTM Insights, Partha held leadership roles at AMI-Partners (APAC), IMaCS, Annik Technology, and has worked with ACNielsen, TNS, and Vodafone. He holds an M.Sc. in Statistics & Econometrics from the University of Calcutta and an MBA in Marketing from NPC-Delhi, and has been widely featured in leading publications like Business Standard, Economic Times, CXO, The Telegraph, CRN etc.
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