TransportBT: Navigating tariff turmoil
If you’re an avid podcast listener with a keen interest in business, logistics, and global trade, the latest episode of TransportBT from The Business Times drills down on some tough questions with global player DHL. Host Derryn Wong is joined by Javier Bilbao, CEO of Asia-Pacific at DHL Supply Chain, to focus on a topic that has everyone talking—tariffs.
Wong navigates through the complexities of tariffs with the help of Bilbao and delivers a comprehensive conversation that covers everything from the Trump administration’s policies to the implications on global trade.
Tariff silver linings?
This episode gives a balanced look at the current landscape and explores potential silver linings, particularly for Asia-Pacific countries like Singapore.
The pair provides real-world examples to help listeners understand how tariffs affect prices globally. For instance, the episode discusses how an iPhone’s price could skyrocket due to tariffs, as various parts are sourced from different countries. Bilbao’s insights offer a behind-the-scenes look at the logistics industry, making it easier for listeners to grasp the economic complexities.
Advantages and adaptive strategies
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The episode diverges from current opinion which paints a gloomy outlook to highlight potential advantages and adaptive strategies for businesses. Bilbao expands on how companies are finding ways to adapt, sharing real-world examples like the automotive industry’s response to the war in Ukraine. This balanced perspective is a breath of fresh air in a landscape often dominated by negative news.
Despite the challenges, Bilbao emphasises the resilience of global trade, drawing attention to historical instances where global trade had bounced back from crises. He uses the analogy that trade is like water, pointing out that like water, trade too would find a way around obstacles. This adaptability is crucial for logistics companies like DHL, which help businesses navigate these disruptions.
Potential benefits for Singapore
This adaptability showcases how businesses can mitigate the risks posed by tariffs and other global disruptions. Wong and Bilbao explore potential benefits for Singapore amidst the global trade turmoil. The pair discuss how Singapore’s stability and strategic location make it an attractive hub for businesses seeking certainty in uncertain times. Bilbao shares his optimism, suggesting that Singapore could emerge as a significant beneficiary of the shifting trade dynamics.
Providing an overview of DHL’s ambitious growth strategy, Bilbao outlines the company’s plans to increase its revenue by 50 per cent by 2030, driven by significant investments in the Asia-Pacific region underscoring DHL’s commitment to supporting its customers through these turbulent times.
Listen now to the latest episode of TransportBT for a clearer understanding of tariffs and a more optimistic outlook on the future of global trade.
TransportBT is a podcast of BT Correspondents. Look out for the next episode featuring senior correspondent Leslie Yee on property matters. And if you have any thoughts or questions, feel free to reach out to us at btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.
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Written and hosted by: Derryn Wong (derrynwong@sph.com.sg)
With Javier Bilbao, CEO of Asia-Pacific, DHL Supply Chain
Edited by: Emily Liu & Claressa Monteiro
Produced by: Derryn Wong, Emily Liu & Chai Pei Chieh
A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media
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