Sinica Podcast Decoupling, De-risking, and the Great U.S.-China Disconnect, with Supply Chain Expert Cameron Johnson
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Nov 7, 2024 Cameron Johnson, a supply chain expert and educator at NYU Shanghai, shares insights on the complexities of U.S.-China relations and the challenges of decoupling. He discusses the intricacies of building domestic supply chains, particularly in the EV and semiconductor sectors, emphasizing America's reliance on Chinese manufacturing. Johnson also touches on the geopolitical shifts in Southeast Asia and the importance of understanding China's competitive ecosystems. His predictions for the impact of the upcoming U.S. elections add an intriguing layer to the conversation.
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Supply Chain Ecosystems
- Supply chains comprise five key components: government support, education and talent, raw materials processing, technology, and advanced infrastructure.
- These components form complex ecosystems, often clustered geographically, which are difficult to replicate elsewhere.
Decoupling Drivers
- The shift towards decoupling was driven by economic concerns like job losses, national security concerns, and political pressures.
- Additional factors include the U.S. trade deficit and perceived anti-competitive practices by China.
PPE Manufacturing Failure
- Despite efforts to boost domestic PPE production during the pandemic, American companies prioritized cost over national origin.
- Many U.S. PPE manufacturers went bankrupt due to lack of demand, even as Americans died due to shortages.
