Looming Tariffs Prompt Companies to Protect Supply Chains

Companies haven’t been waiting for a formal Trump announcement on new tariffs to prepare their responses—many are ready now.

Since the November election, in-house counsel at companies with global supply chains have been mapping their suppliers, planning how they can relocate, and starting to renegotiate contracts.

“We have clients who the tariffs could impact quite meaningfully,” said Felicia Nowels, a partner at Akerman. “Hence the need to prepare with great detail and in advance so that on day one they are ready, no matter what mechanism is in place—and of course, we need to be prepared to be surprised.”