Many companies have shifted away from China and towards Southeast and South Asia, but trade with these regions now faces new challenges.
According to QIMA's Q4 Barometer, trade deals and tariffs continue to disrupt global supply chains as the 2025 holiday season begins. Nearshoring in the Americas and friendshoring, or sourcing from "friendly" countries, offer little relief.
While Washington's policies have dominated headlines, alliances forming between other major economies may prove more consequential for long-term trade stability.
The report provides a data-driven snapshot of how brands are adapting to supply chain uncertainty, diversifying suppliers, and rebalancing risk.
Author's summary: Nearshoring and friendshoring are not yet solving trade war problems.