Are Tariffs Brining Manufacturing Back to the USA?

In this episode of The Industrial Real Estate Show, Chad Griffiths is joined by co-host Matt Carroll and returning guest Dr. Jim Tompkins to discuss the current state of global trade, tariffs, and how these issues are impacting supply chains and industrial real estate. Dr. Tompkins breaks down the rationale behind U.S. tariffs under President Trump, arguing that while they have caused short-term pain, they are strategically aimed at rebalancing decades of trade deficits. He explains that tariffs, when combined with tax and regulatory strategies, can strengthen domestic manufacturing and reduce dependency on adversarial trade relationships. He compares this approach to adjusting a basketball strategy at halftime—adaptability, not inconsistency, is the goal.

The conversation transitions into a broader discussion of “reglobalization,” where supply chains are being restructured for resilience instead of just low cost. Dr. Tompkins outlines how companies should evaluate where to locate operations based on industry clusters, such as semiconductors in Phoenix, Austin, and Columbus, or pharmaceuticals in Boston, New Jersey, and North Carolina. He stresses the importance of optionality—diversifying suppliers and manufacturing locations—and points out how tools and government resources can help small and mid-sized businesses adapt. He concludes on an optimistic note, saying uncertainty is lifting and businesses should stop waiting and start preparing.

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