The Peter Zeihan Podcast Series Can 3D Printing Save U.S. Manufacturing? || Peter Zeihan
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Nov 21, 2025 As global manufacturing faces pressure from collapsing supply chains and tariffs, 3D printing emerges as a potential savior. The discussion delves into how tariffs are pushing companies to rethink production locations, while highlighting the tech's limitations in complex multi-material assemblies. Prototyping and lightweight aerospace parts are identified as prime use cases. Despite slower speeds compared to traditional methods, there's optimism for niche growth in 3D printing as manufacturers adapt to economic challenges.
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Podcast Intro On A Walk
- Peter Zeihan starts casually walking down Indian Creek and craving Mexican food near Denver.
- He uses the moment to introduce a Patreon question about manufacturing and 3D printing.
Tariffs Drive Supply Chains Out
- Tariffs and complex, multinational supply chains push manufacturers to relocate production rather than pay repeated duties.
- Deglobalization and tariffs therefore reduce investment in U.S. physical manufacturing capacity.
What 3D Printing Actually Does Well
- 3D printing (additive manufacturing) builds objects layer by layer from powdered substrates using lasers.
- The tech excels at prototyping, complex shapes, and strength-to-weight optimization, especially in aerospace.