The NPR Politics Podcast Weekly Roundup: May 20th
May 20, 2022
The podcast dives into the baby formula crisis, revealing how tariffs and supply chain issues led to industry consolidation and a major shortage. It also discusses Finland and Sweden’s shift toward NATO membership in light of Russian aggression, marking a significant change in global military alliances. Plus, there's a nostalgic segment about record-breaking paper airplane flights, blending childhood memories with technical insights, along with a humorous take on current pop culture and fast food antics.
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Formula Industry Concentration
- The US baby formula industry is highly concentrated, with four companies controlling 90% of the market.
- This vulnerability resulted from government policies like import tariffs and the WIC program's exclusive state contracts.
Government Response to Formula Shortage
- The FDA addressed the formula shortage by allowing imports and urging states to relax WIC contract rules.
- The White House invoked the Defense Production Act and is airlifting formula from Europe.
Supply Chain Diversification
- Diversify suppliers, both domestically and internationally, to avoid supply chain vulnerabilities.
- Don't rely solely on domestic production or single-source suppliers.