How will Trump’s rariffs affect manufacturers in South Wales’ own supply chains?

With Donald Trump back in the White House and already pushing forward with new tariffs on imports — including a universal 10% tariff and 30% tariffs on Chinese goods — manufacturers in South Wales could be facing ripple effects across their supply chains, even without direct trade links to the US.
 

Why it matters (even if you don’t trade with the US)

South Wales is home to highly integrated industries in semiconductors, electronics, medtech and advanced manufacturing. Even if your business doesn’t export to the US, your supply chain probably touches American or Chinese markets in some way — whether through components, raw materials or Tier 1 suppliers.
 
The immediate risks:
 

• Price increases for electronics, chips, and mechanical components sourced from Asia but distributed via the US.
• Delays and reshoring disruptions, as US-based manufacturers prioritise domestic suppliers and reconfigure global contracts.
• Increased competition for non-US suppliers, raising lead times and costs.
• Currency volatility, affecting import costs and making forward planning more complex.

What can South Wales manufacturers do?

1. Audit your current supply chain: Identify where US or China-linked risk exists — it’s often not obvious until a shipment is delayed or a quote spikes.
2. Secure alternative suppliers early: EU and UK-based vendors may see a surge in demand — move quickly to lock in capacity or pricing.
3. Stay close to key customers: Tier 1 or OEM clients may shift their own priorities — regular communication will help you stay ahead.
4. Review contracts for flexibility: Build in tariff-adjustment clauses, or explore shorter-term agreements while markets settle.
 

Where IntaPeople can help

In times like these, having the right people in the right roles becomes a strategic advantage. Whether you need:

• Supply chain specialists to help diversify and derisk operations
• Procurement engineers to source alternative components
• Project managers or technical leads to keep delivery on track
• Or simply extra capacity in production, R&D or operations

 
IntaPeople has deep networks across South Wales’ technical and engineering talent pool. We partner closely with manufacturing businesses to deliver recruitment solutions that are responsive, reliable and built around your commercial needs.
 
If global uncertainty is putting pressure on your delivery timelines or technical teams, let’s have a conversation.