Business News Edition
Global trade is booming in 2026, yet the story beneath the numbers is what really matters for business leaders. We’re seeing growth powered by higher prices, not necessarily more shipments, as energy and logistics disruptions ripple through key routes like the Straits of Hormuz. At the same time, demand for AI infrastructure and electric mobility keeps rewriting trade flows, with critical minerals, semiconductors, batteries, ICT products, and electric vehicles turning into the new center of gravity for global supply chains.We also dig into the policy reality reshaping planning and budgets: record-high trade intervention and a clear swing toward protectionism. I walk through major Section 301 tariff moves in the United States, the EU’s evolving stance on rebalancing measures and industrial protections, and why supply chains are increasingly being designed around national security and resilience rather than pure efficiency. If you’re responsible for sourcing, logistics, compliance, or risk, this is the context you need to interpret the headlines and make better calls.Then we widen the lens to the week’s business signals: food inflation risks returning due to climate volatility and geopolitics, US consumer spending shifting toward essentials, and fresh labor market weakness that could pressure discretionary demand. You’ll also hear updates on the Trump BBC defamation case, the UK review of electric vehicle sales targets, the surge in transshipping networks used to sidestep tariffs, and even a surprising packaging challenge where adhesives can undermine recyclability goals.If you want clearer insight into global trade, tariffs, supply chain risk, and where the economy is heading next, subscribe, share the episode, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Send us Fan MailSupport the show THANKS FOR LISTENING PLEASE SUPPORT THE SHOW You can support the podcast by following the link here. It makes a big difference and helps us make great content for you to listen to. Follow like and share the Chain Reaction Podcast with colleagues and friends on social media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn.News about forthcoming programmes click hereSHAREPlease share the link with others so they can listen too https://chainreaction.buzzsprout.com/shareLET US KNOWIf you have any comments, suggestions or questions then just direct message on Linkedin or X (Twitter)REVIEW AND RATE If you like the show please rate and review it. Every vote helps.About Tony Hines and the Chain Reaction Podcast – All About Supply Chain AdvantageI have been researching and writing about supply chains for over 25 years. I wrote my first book on supply chain strategies in the early 2000s. The latest edition is published in 2024 available from Routledge, Amazon and all good book stores. Each week we have special episodes on particular topics relating to supply chains. We have a weekly news round up every Saturday at 12 noon. ...





