#supply-chain-disruption

#supply-chain-disruption

Baker & Taylor, one of the nation's largest and longest-serving book and media wholesalers for libraries, recently announced the unexpected closure of its business. B&T has served the nation's library community for nearly 200 years, and the Contra Costa County Library system is just one of many nationwide that have relied on them for decades. The abruptness of this closure presents a significant challenge across the industry.

The US government is reportedly considering new export controls that could block a wide range of products made with US software from being shipped to China, in what could become one of Washington's most sweeping trade measures to date. If implemented, the move could disrupt global technology supply chains and heighten uncertainty for multinational manufacturers that rely on US-developed software across their operations.

This renewed focus has brought economic statecraft to the forefront, as governments increasingly deploy trade restrictions, foreign investment scrutiny, and sanctions as foreign policy tools to advance their agendas and exert influence. After decades of near-unwavering commitment to free trade and the rapid globalization of markets across the Western world, we are witnessing a protectionist turn, with U.S. tariff levels reaching heights not seen in nearly a century.

On Sept. 2, the Republic National Distributing Co. (RNDC) will complete its departure from the largest liquor market in the United States: California. The withdrawal of one of California's largest alcohol distributors is bound to affect consumers negatively. The initial impact is already being felt by liquor retailers, liquor producers, bars and restaurants. At least half of our book came from RNDC, said Alex Tarantino, the general manager and liquor buyer for the Buckeye Roadhouse in Mill Valley.

The US president has threatened to impose a tariff of up to 300 percent on imports of semiconductors. United States President Donald Trump has threatened to impose tariffs of up to 300 percent on semiconductor imports, with exemptions for foreign companies that commit to manufacturing in the US. Trump has cast the proposed tariff as a way to drive investment to the US, but experts say it could also disrupt global supply chains and even penalise companies already making chips in the US.