As we wrap up 2025 and head into a new year, a lot of importers are asking the same questions:
- Are tariffs finally calming down—or could we be blindsided again?
- Is “China + 1” still the right strategy?
- Is repairability really becoming a serious design constraint?
- Will the AI boom hit my component supply?
- And where are all those “lights-out smart factories” we keep seeing in the press?
In this episode, Renaud and Adrian discuss these trends as we look ahead to 2026. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the Sofeast team!
Listen here
Listen to the episode or watch on YouTube
Episode Sections:
- 00:00 – Introduction
- 03:16 – Trend #1: Tariff volatility in the Trump era
- 12:14 – Trend #2: Where is ‘China+1’ really going?
- 19:36 – Trend #3: Sustainability, repairability & modular design
- 24:10 – Trend #4: AI/data centers and component price shocks
- 27:49 – Trend #5: Smart manufacturing: hype vs. factory floor reality
- 31:40 – Wrap-up, Merry Christmas & call for questions
Further reading
- Breaking Down the US-China Trade Tariffs: What’s in Effect Now?
- US to allow Nvidia H200 chip shipments to China, Trump says
- Global trade to hit record $35 trillion despite slowing momentum
- The AI frenzy is driving a memory chip supply crisis
- RAM is ruining everything
- 2026 Manufacturing Industry Outlook
- Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation
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