Welcome to this week’s Sourcing Spotlight.
In this weeks edition, we will be looking Trade tensions between the US and China have eased - temporarily. A 90-day extension of the tariff truce keeps rates steady at 30% on most Chinese imports and 10% on most US exports until 10 November 2025, averting a steep hike that could have pushed tariffs to triple digits. The tariff pause isn’t just a political milestone, it’s also a strategic opportunity. Big retailers are using it to supercharge their supply chains, investing in AI, predictive analytics, diversified sourcing, and sustainability. But resilience isn’t just for the big players.
Feature Story
China–US Tariffs: The 90-Day Breathing Space and What to Do With It
The latest US–China trade talks have delivered a rare reprieve: a 90-day extension of the tariff truce, keeping rates steady at 30% on most Chinese imports and 10% on most US exports until 10 November 2025. The move sidesteps a dramatic escalation that could have seen tariffs soar to as high as 145% from the US and 125% from China, offering small businesses a valuable planning window during the peak holiday sourcing period.
But this pause is not a peace treaty. Behind closed doors, both sides are negotiating on deep-rooted issues, from tariff rollbacks and purchase commitments to technology restrictions, sanctions, and access to critical resources. While a further extension or a partial deal is possible, the risk of a tariff snapback remains real.
For small businesses, this is the moment to act: lock in shipments at current rates, review HTS classifications, renegotiate supplier terms, explore alternative sourcing options, and forecast cash flow under different tariff scenarios. The next 90 days could define your cost base for the months ahead and determine whether you’re reacting to changes or ready for them.
Will November bring relief, another short-term extension, or the return of a full-blown trade war?
Why Major Retailers Are Doubling Down on Supply Chain Resilience
The 90-day tariff pause has given businesses a rare moment of stability in an otherwise unpredictable trade environment and the smartest retailers are wasting no time in using it to strengthen their supply chains. While major brands are pouring resources into AI, predictive analytics, and diversified sourcing, small businesses can take equally strategic steps without the big price tag. From affordable forecasting tools and inventory management software to supplier diversification, scenario planning, and low-cost tech upgrades, there are practical moves that can be implemented right now to build resilience before the next disruption hits. This isn’t a time to sit back and wait; it’s the moment to act so you can keep goods flowing, protect your margins, and stay ahead of competitors when the pause ends.
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That’s it for this weeks Sourcing Spotlight.
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Until next time,
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