Companies in Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Singapore have announced major U.S. investments in semiconductors, batteries, autos and electronics. Many more mid-sized suppliers are now asking whether they need to follow their customers to America. The right answer depends on careful economics, not headlines.
Where U.S. trade policy stands
U.S. trade policy changed several times in 2026. In February, the Supreme Court ruled that tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) were not authorized. A temporary Section 122 surcharge followed, and when it expired in July, the administration moved to new Section 301 actions. Sector tariffs under Section 232, including on steel, aluminum and autos, have continued throughout. Rates and coverage are still shifting, so any plan should be checked against the current schedule before you commit capital.
What to model first
- Customer requirements. Are your U.S. customers asking for local content or shorter lead times?
- Landed cost by route. Compare direct shipment, third-country assembly and U.S. production.
- Labor and operating costs. U.S. wages are higher, but automation, energy and logistics costs can offset part of the gap.
- Incentives and grants. State and local programs can affect site choice, and many require an economic impact or benefit-cost analysis.
- Policy risk. Build scenarios rather than assuming today’s tariff rates will hold.
Language and local knowledge
GERC offers Mandarin-speaking support for calls and meetings with suppliers and partners, and is based in Southern California, a major hub for trans-Pacific trade.
How GERC helps
- Feasibility studies for U.S. plants, warehouses and distribution centers
- Economic impact analysis to support incentive and grant applications
- Landed-cost and sourcing comparisons
- Trade-policy briefings tailored to your products
About GERC
Global Economic Research Consulting (GERC) is a woman-owned economic consulting firm in San Bernardino, California, near the Los Angeles and Long Beach port complex. Our founder, Dr. Shirley Ayangbah, holds a Ph.D. in International Economic and Financial Law and an M.A. in Economics, and has published on WTO digital trade rules, global value chains, and reshoring and nearshoring in U.S. manufacturing. GERC does not provide legal advice or file customs entries; we work alongside your counsel and customs broker.
To discuss your project, email info@gercconsulting.com, call (909) 454-7076, or see our international trade services.