Welcome to this week’s Sourcing Spotlight.
In this weeks edition, we will be looking at the latest announcements from Trump over the tariffs, The United States has expanded Section 232 tariffs to include 407 additional steel and aluminium derivative products.
We also will be touching upon the capacity of drones and the how they are being used in the industry. Also we are looking at the positive spin on Tariffs and how it has catapulted companies to look at their margins and processes, meaning companies are now much healthier.
Feature Story
US Expands Tariffs to Steel Derivatives, Aluminium Products and Semiconductor Chips
The US has widened its Section 232 tariffs, adding 407 new product codes for steel and aluminium derivatives effective 18 August 2025. Unlike blanket duties, these tariffs apply only to the value of the metal content within finished goods – meaning everything from appliances and cars to electronics and packaging is now in scope. With exemptions narrowing and semiconductor chips flagged as the next target, the changes signal a major shift in US trade policy.
👉 How will this affect your sourcing, cost base and supplier negotiations? Read the full breakdown to see which products are hit hardest and what it means for global supply chains.
The Future of Drone Delivery: From Hype to Your Doorstep
Drones are no longer just toys for hobbyists or props for wedding videos – they’re delivering blood in Rwanda, burritos in Brisbane, and even test results for the NHS. But can they really replace the delivery van on your street? From AI-powered navigation to strict UK airspace rules (and a few nosy neighbours), drone delivery is edging closer to the mainstream. The big question is: will your Friday-night curry really arrive by air?
How Mid-Market Firms Can Turn Tariffs into a Competitive Advantage
Tariffs may feel like a costly headache, but for mid-market firms they’re fast becoming the perfect excuse to redesign supply chains, outmanoeuvre rivals, and even charge a premium for resilience. From nearshoring production to Mexico and Eastern Europe, to tariff-engineering products and rewriting supplier contracts, companies are proving that disruption can be turned into advantage. The smart ones aren’t moaning into their tea—they’re building supply chains that can bend, flex, and thrive no matter what politics throws at them.
Archived Articles
DISCOVER OUR PREVIOUS ARTICLES….
From new AI concepts that could benefit you, to new technologies and strategies to navigate the current global economy. Read through for impactful resources to help you become proactive in your business.
How Stoke-on-Trent Kept Britain’s Ceramics Alive & What Can We Learn From It.
Walmart is using AI tool Pactum to negotiate with suppliers, and 85% prefer it to a human.
As tariffs escalate, Illinois finds itself caught in the crossfire. From manufacturing supply chains tied to Canada and Mexico, to billions in farm exports now facing retaliation
That’s it for this weeks Sourcing Spotlight.
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Until next time,
Quiet sourcing. Loud impact.
