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Marcy’s Musings: The Legislative Outlook—Helping or Hurting?

Just before we were ready to publish our October issue of PCB007 Magazine, some breaking news from the White House, unfortunately (but perfectly) parlayed into why the topic of this month’s issue has been so important to cover in great depth.

On Oct. 10, after U.S. trading markets were officially closed, President Trump announced a 100% tariff on Chinese goods, which will go into effect Nov. 1, unless trade negotiations yield favorable results for the U.S. In response, the Chinese swiftly shut down access to critical minerals, introducing new export controls that require a license for even a small amount of these minerals. Now, the upcoming trade-focused meeting between President Trump and Xi Jinping may never happen. Just as swiftly, the U.S. stock market took a dive, though experts still anticipate its continued strong performance, at least through the end of 2025.

Such moves are the latest in a litany of tumultuous political moves and rhetoric affecting global markets, and thus, the continuous uncertainty and volatility under which businesses must now operate. 

This month, PCB007 Magazine examines the rules and laws that shape the current global business landscape, and highlights some of the reasons they are complicating business operations and making profitability more challenging.  Whether it is the additional cost being put on global electronics manufacturing companies due to U.S. tariffs, environmental regulations in the EU, or the near-total monopoly China is leveraging on critical minerals vital for defense, EV, and semiconductor manufacturing, there is a lot for businesses to digest to make their best strategy and risk mitigation decisions. This issue focuses on things you need to know to operate effectively and make informed business decisions. 

An article by Chris Mitchell, VP of global government relations for the Global Electronics Association, sets the tone for this issue. His message outlines a significant paradigm shift in global trade relations. My interview with David Schild, executive director of PCBAA, provides a U.S. viewpoint on re-establishing and growing a robust U.S. PCB manufacturing industry. Alison James, leading the Association’s European advocacy efforts, discusses a critical juncture for the EU, and we revisit a recent conversation about the state of EU security and defense and its unique challenges. Sydney Xiao, president of the Association in China, outlines China’s need to adapt to a changing environment. The November issue of SMT007 Magazine will take a closer look at the increasing importance of Mexico in electronics manufacturing. 

This issue also puts a spotlight on sustainability, where it’s common knowledge that the EU far outpaces U.S. efforts, particularly the EU’s progressive ESG policies and the enactment of formal legislation. 

Nyron Rouse directs government grants for the Global Electronics Association and breaks down what’s needed to obtain federal funding is available in the U.S. to support domestic business growth. 

MacDermid Alpha Electronics Solutions leads an interesting discussion on surface finishes, specifically ENIPEG and the implications of the updated IPC-4556 specification for corrosion, as well as the utility of hybrid gold systems.  

Our columnists always bring the goods. Kurt Palmer of Schmoll discusses depth routing in rigid-flex PCB fabrication, while Michael Carano explores Type 1 interconnect defects. Chemcut’s Don Ball critically examines what it would take to bring circuit board production back to the U.S., Happy Holden recounts working in China, and Steve Williams completes the story of Electro-Tek, one of the industry’s earliest PCB shop success stories. Finally, PCBAA Chair Shane Whiteside explains how “made in America” labeling may be deceiving. 

It's October, so grab your favorite pumpkin-spice beverage and take some time to learn and read what industry watchdogs are saying about today’s business and political climates.

This column originally appeared in the October 2025 issue of PCB007 Magazine.