Supply Chain Shifts: Rare Earths, Tariffs and Fuel Exports

Boeing’s recent acquisition is prompting a realignment in the aerospace supply chain as suppliers and forwarders reassess sourcing, inventory and shipping cadence to protect deliveries of critical components.

China’s rare-earth shipments have increased after trade talks and export licensing changes, providing short-term relief for electronics manufacturers that rely on magnet and alloy inputs. At the same time, China plans a substantial rise in diesel exports for December—potentially up to 4.5 million barrels—to ease tightening diesel availability across Asia following reduced output from other refiners.

Logistics teams are monitoring fuel surcharges, freight-cost volatility and routing options to minimize disruption and advise importers on timing and consolidation strategies. U.S. manufacturing contracted for a ninth straight month in November 2025, with falling orders and employment and rising input costs, underscoring demand weakness that could ripple through global supply chains.

Trade-policy changes remain active: Section 232 duties now apply at 10%–25% to medium and heavy vehicles and parts by origin and classification; new probes cover imports such as medical equipment and industrial machinery; the IEEPA tariff tied to fentanyl-related trade was cut from 20% to 10%; copper duties are also evolving. Firms are adjusting classification, compliance and sourcing to limit duty exposure while using digital portals for real-time visibility and tracking.