US Industries Unprepared for China Supply Shock

Coronavirus outbreak reveals US industry vulnerability to China-based supply chains

A Chinese family wears protective masks as they walk in an empty shopping area that would usually be busy during the Chinese New Year and Spring Festival holiday in Beijing, China on Jan. 28, 2020. Kevin Frayer/Getty Images

Commentary

In 2018, President Trump warned the U.S. military establishment against overreliance on China for critical parts and elements. His “Buy American” initiative was intended to avoid supply chain leverage that China could use to hobble the United States during tense situations—such as a trade war—or a potential conflict.