Automation World podcast discusses the impact of recently imposed U.S. tariffs on industrial automation technologies, with insights from industry leaders.
Are current U.S. tariffs forcing you to revise your automation plans and sourcing strategies?
Are you looking for recommendations on steps you should take to secure stable pricing and supply?
The "Gets Your Questions Answered" podcast, hosted by Automation World Editor-in-Chief David Greenfield, tackles these questions, provides insight, and shares advice from several industrial automation suppliers—including Opto 22.
Why should you listen? Dave Greenfield shares:
- Tariff costs have escalated rapidly and spread beyond imports — Over 82% of packaging and processing technology companies report direct impact, with Endress+Hauser nearly doubling their supply chain surcharge from 4.5% to 8.4% in just three months, while even domestic parts costs are rising due to supply chain ripple effects.
- Companies are implementing both short-term price increases and long-term strategic shifts — Most suppliers have moved from stockpiling inventory to passing tariff costs through surcharges, while simultaneously investing in manufacturing diversification away from China and expanding domestic production capabilities.
- Future supply chain risks may be delayed but significant — While lead times haven't been severely impacted yet, industry experts warn that if demand suddenly resurges after inventory levels naturally decrease, response times could slow dramatically due to the gradual nature of supply chain adjustments.
And in case you missed it, read this OptoBlog post from a few months ago to hear why Opto 22's Made in the USA promise is making a difference.