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Will new US tariffs trigger major manufacturing reshoring or just higher consumer prices?
In this episode of Movers and Makers, Will Drewery and Greg Smyth welcome Jack Slagle, a trade policy expert who previously led export control programs at Tesla, Mitsubishi, and Restoration Hardware. The timing couldn't be more relevant, as the conversation dives into the recent "Liberation Day" announcement of reciprocal tariffs by the Trump administration. Jack breaks down the motivations behind these tariffs, explaining how they target the trade deficit rather than matching other countries' existing barriers. "Other countries have just as many tools in their boxes," Jack warns, describing how the international community is already forming new alliances in response.
The discussion explores regional implications across Asia, Europe, and beyond, with particular focus on semiconductor supply chains and manufacturing strategy. Could Taiwan's 32% tariff be designed to accelerate TSMC's expansion in Arizona? Will Southeast Asian nations align with China or capitulate to US demands? Jack offers a surprising recommendation: "I would immediately send a lot of these powers back to Congress." He argues that executive trade actions, which can be "done and undone in 48 hours," create an unstable investment climate that undermines the very manufacturing reshoring the administration hopes to achieve. For manufacturers and supply chain leaders, this episode provides crucial context for navigating what Jack calls "a highly dynamic environment."
Jack Slagle is a seasoned expert in international trade policy, export controls, and global supply chain compliance. With an educational background in international security, Jack brings a unique geopolitical perspective to complex trade issues. His impressive career includes leading trade compliance programs at major multinational corporations including Tesla, Mitsubishi, and Restoration Hardware. Currently working as an independent consultant, Jack helps businesses navigate the increasingly complex landscape of tariffs, export controls, and international trade regulations. His expertise spans understanding both the technical aspects of tariff implementation and the broader geopolitical implications of trade policy. Jack's analysis is particularly valuable during this period of unprecedented change in global trade relationships and manufacturing strategy
In This Episode:
- (00:00) Introduction of Jack Slagle, export controls expert from Tesla, discussing the recent "Liberation Day" tariff announcements and their global implications
- (04:32) Understanding how reciprocal tariffs were calculated based on trade deficits rather than matching existing barriers, and what this means for international trade
- (14:21) Regional impacts across Asia as countries form new alliances, with focus on China, Taiwan, and semiconductor supply chains
- (27:22) India and European Union responses to US tariff policy, including potential revival of Boeing-Airbus disputes and new trading blocs
- (38:04) Recommendations for more stable trade policy through congressional oversight rather than executive action, creating a more predictable business environment
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About the show:
The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth, the show will cover factory-building strategies, manufacturing processes, and market insights. With expertise from Diagon, a leader in reshoring and streamlining manufacturing equipment procurement, the podcast offers valuable perspectives for engineers, executives, and enthusiasts, aiming to optimize supply chains and drive efficiency in the industry.
About the hosts:
Will Drewery Will Drewery is the founder and CEO of Diagon, an equipment marketplace focused on serving the battery industry. With a background in equipment procurement, Will's career began as a DOD contractor in Iraq in 2009, followed by significant experience at Tesla (2012-2018), where he built and led the equipment procurement team. He also gained valuable tech expertise working with Social Construct and Astra. In February 2024, Will successfully led Diagon through a pivot from a procurement software model to its current marketplace focus, raising $4.3M in Series A funding. His mission is to simplify the complex processes of sourcing, financing, and managing machinery for high-tech industries, particularly in batteries and aerospace.
Greg Smyth is a co-founder and current VP of Supply Chain for Diagon, as well as a venture partner and podcast host. Greg has extensive experience in engineering, supply chain management, and investment. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, Greg worked at ExxonMobil for 8 years before moving to Silicon Valley in 2016. At Tesla, he spent 4 years negotiating $200M contracts, leading the development of self-driving hardware, and managing full life cycle commodity procurement—from raw materials to recycling. Greg is also an angel investor who continues to drive Diagon’s growth and success.
Resources:
Jack Slagle LinkedIn
Diagon.ai
Will Drewery LinkedIn
Greg Smyth LinkedIn
