Blogs & Insights

What the Trump Tax Means for Procurement & Supply Chains

Written by Keith Reinbolt | April 10, 2025

Recent tariff adjustments have significantly impacted global trade dynamics. On April 9, 2025, the United States implemented a 10% baseline tariff on imports from most countries, with specific exceptions. Notably, tariffs on Chinese imports have surged to 125% reflecting escalating trade tensions. Additionally, a 25% tariff remains in effect for imports from Canada and Mexico, particularly on goods not covered under the USMCA trade pact.

These changes are directly impacting procurement teams by:

 1. Driving up sourcing and material costs

Every percentage point increase in Trump’s tariff is cutting into margins, especially for import-heavy sectors like retail, FMCG, and manufacturing.

 2. Disrupting supplier networks

Suppliers in high-tariff countries are now less competitive, forcing buyers to urgently rethink sourcing strategies.

 3. Increasing time pressure

Companies that can’t move quickly risk missing out on viable alternatives or absorbing long-term cost hits.

How Scoutbee Helps You Respond with Smarter Procurement

At Scoutbee, we specialize in helping procurement teams stay ahead of disruption. Our AI-powered sourcing software and vendor database allow your team to:

  • Launch a modern procurement transformation strategy
  • Build a stronger, more resilient supply chain procurement network
  • Identify new suppliers in untapped or low-tariff regions — fast
  • Use real-time insights and AI in procurement to accelerate decision-making
  • Improve supplier management and minimize risk exposure

Real Impact: From Risk to Opportunity

Whether you're navigating sourcing delays or cost inflation, Scoutbee helps turn volatility into a competitive edge. Our platform enables better supplier sourcing strategies, from discovery to qualification — all in one place.

Head to Tariff.rip to De-Risk One Area of Your Supply Chain

Looking to reduce tariff exposure or rebuild a disrupted supplier network?

We’ll show you how Scoutbee can help you:

  • Find cost-effective suppliers in low-risk regions

  • Streamline your procurement process

  • Future-proof your sourcing strategy

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Trump tax and how does it affect supply chain procurement?

The Trump tax refers to new tariffs on imports that raise the cost of raw materials, components, and goods. This directly affects supply chain procurement by increasing costs and disrupting existing supplier relationships.

How can sourcing software help reduce tariff exposure?

Sourcing software like Scoutbee helps procurement teams identify alternative suppliers in regions not impacted by Trump’s tariff increases. It enables faster decision-making, better supplier matching, and reduced risk.

What is AI in procurement used for?

AI in procurement streamlines supplier discovery, risk analysis, and qualification. It empowers teams to make faster, data-driven decisions — crucial during periods of trade instability like we’re seeing with the Trump tax.