For manufacturers willing to invest in flexibility, visibility and smarter network design, the volatility of the past year may ultimately prove to be a catalyst for long-term performance.

The very best agentic AI applications can drive major efficiency gains, enhance visibility and reduce risk. Others are essentially multi-million-dollar mistakes.

The move is part of a broader effort by to counter China's ability to use its dominance of the industry as leverage in trade negotiations.

The agreement also shows the unusual avenues the Trump administration is willing to pursue in order to reduce dependence on China

Capacity planning will only grow in importance, as manufacturers balance cost, resilience, sustainability and speed-to-market.

The major factory investments being made now and over the next few years will ensure not only state-of-the-art manufacturing quality, but also superior protection of the valued staff. 

The chief supply chain officer will emerge as a strategic partner in growth, innovation and enterprise transformation.

Once viewed as a way to improve efficiency, automation is now recognized as a growth enabler that allows businesses to scale with agility, improve decision-making, and deliver greater value to both customers and employees.

Despite the short-term headwinds, SK’s Ahn said demand for EV batteries is expected to gradually recover this year and be similar to last year’s levels.