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Tom Yang, CEO of CEE PCB, understands the importance of collaboration between U.S. and Chinese fabricators. He believes that to understand the current political and economic conditions between the two countries, we must maintain a level of international business cooperation. In this interview, we discuss market conditions under a new U.S. administration, how companies like CEE are responding to potential changes, and CEE’s strategic move into Thailand.
Nolan Johnson: Tom, let’s start our discussion with market dynamics. What changes in agenda items and priorities do you anticipate with a new U.S. administration?
Tom Yang: The entire landscape is changing, similar to the trade war that started in 2018 between the U.S. and China. Then, the pandemic hit, and China’s lockdown disrupted the entire supply chain. That’s when U.S. customers started adopting the China Plus One strategy, looking to mitigate some risks by diversifying beyond China. It wasn’t just about the trade war but a mix of other concerns as well.
Now, U.S. and European customers have shifted parts of their supply chain to Southeast Asia. As a result, China is facing an oversupply problem with fewer customers. The market’s taking a tough turn—suddenly, it’s all about price, with everyone competing to undercut each other. It's honestly a bit chaotic, something we’ve never seen before, and it’s a real challenge for Chinese suppliers.
Johnson: With these changes, does there seem to be a push for Chinese suppliers to concentrate on the Chinese domestic market over an international market?
To read the entire interview, which first appeared in the January 2025 issue of SMT007 Magazine, click here.
