IPC Webinar Review: Tariff Tensions Influence Electronics Supply Chain
April 11, 2025 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamEstimated reading time: 2 minutes

IPC continued its important discussion of the operational impact of new tariff policies on the electronics manufacturing supply chain by addressing a primarily European audience in a webinar on Thursday, April 10. This webinar focused on critical developments in global trade policy affecting Europe, and how trade tensions are influencing strategic decisions across the electronics supply chain.
Alison James, senior director of European government relations, hosted the event. Speakers included Jose Maria Vinals and Milla Kasulke of Squire Patton Boggs, and Raphael Beaujeu of DECISION. They highlighted IPC’s region-specific approach to government relations and efforts in Europe to strengthen the electronics industrial base and align regulatory frameworks to reduce burdens on business operations.
In collaboration with numerous European companies and industry associations, IPC has launched a call to action, urging EU institutions and member states to support policies and funding that encourage business investment to revitalize regional electronics manufacturing, enhance economic competitiveness, drive innovation, and improve national security.
Much time was spent delving into the complex and rapidly changing tariff environment driven by the U.S., which announced trade policies in early April that have included a 10% universal import tariff. On April 9, it was announced that the reciprocal tariffs above 10%, which had gone into effect that morning, would be paused for 90 days for all countries except China, which was to be increased to 125% plus an additional 20% tariff previously imposed.
Though driven by multiple U.S. objectives aimed at increasing trade equity for the U.S. and increasing federal revenue, the U.S. presidential administration is also looking at domestic manufacturing incentives. The scope of these tariffs—especially their application to electronics components and inputs—has raised great concern about global supply chain disruption and cost escalation beyond even pandemic-era disruptions.
The webinar speakers addressed Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum and warned of possible expansion to copper and derivative products—materials essential in electronics and PCB production. They also flagged increased administrative and compliance burdens for companies due to origin tracing and tariff classification rules.
Opportunities do exist for businesses to adjust their operations. Strategies such as tariff engineering, contract renegotiation, and supply chain relocation are being explored to mitigate risk. Some companies are examining joint ventures and mergers in tariff-favorable regions to maintain access to the U.S. market.
On Wednesday, the European Union paused its retaliatory tariffs toward the U.S. and is aiming instead to negotiate with the Trump administration for a zero-for-zero tariff agreement. EU regulators have also delayed or adjusted certain environmental, social, governance (ESG)-related regulations to maintain a flexible stance in trade discussions. At the same time, new enforcement tools like anti-coercion mechanisms and restrictions on public procurement are being prepared by European leaders should negotiations fail.
As the Thursday webinar concluded, presenters stressed the dual impact of tariffs: a direct hit to electronics exports and an indirect blow via reduced demand in downstream industries. Companies are encouraged to engage with legal and trade advisors to navigate the current landscape, optimize supply chains, and prepare for a shifting regulatory future.
A similar IPC webinar took place April 3, targeting a mostly U.S.-based audience, featuring Kasulke as the main presenter.
Additional IPC resources to help navigate the ongoing changes in trade policy include:
Suggested Items
The Government Circuit: Trump’s Trade War Disrupts the Electronics Ecosystem
05/06/2025 | Chris Mitchell -- Column: The Government CircuitThere is certainly no shortage of work to be done in the IPC Government Relations department, as the U.S. waged a tariff campaign on practically every industrial country in the world and several countries embarked on high-tech initiatives with a mix of approaches to the crucial foundations of electronics manufacturing. Indeed, the breadth and speed of U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff campaign continues to be a serious challenge for our industry.
TV Brands May Pass U.S. Tariff Costs to Consumers; 2025 Shipments Expected to Drop 0.7%
04/30/2025 | TrendForceTrendForce’s latest research indicates that U.S. reciprocal tariffs are likely to drive TV brands to pass rising costs onto consumers through higher retail prices in the second half of 2025, further weakening consumer spending momentum.
Choosing the Right Strategic Path
04/29/2025 | Marcy LaRont, PCB007 MagazineTom Yang, CEO of CEE PCB, discusses the current economic challenges, noting reduced purchasing power post-pandemic. He highlights the growing demand for HDI in consumer electronics due to AI growth. Tom also expresses concerns about tariffs under the new U.S. administration, prompting CEE to diversify production locations, including new plants in Southeast Asia. He emphasizes the need for PCB manufacturers to adapt strategically amidst rising costs and fierce competition, particularly for mid-sized shops facing unique challenges in the industry.
Mycronic Posts Interim Report January-March 2025
04/25/2025 | MycronicMycronic announced its interim report for the period of January to March 2025, revealing a strong performance in the first quarter. The company reported significant increases in order intake and net sales, alongside a healthy EBIT margin.
CONFIDEE: Guiding You Through Tariff Uncertainty
04/23/2025 | CONFIDEEThe current tariff landscape presents significant challenges for businesses, with shifting trade policies and increased duties impacting supply chains and overall costs. Navigating these complexities requires agility and strategic sourcing.