Plain meaning
The network of suppliers, producers, transport links, warehouses, and buyers that moves goods or services from inputs to final use.
Also called
supply-chain routes
supply-chain route
supply chains
supply-chain
Key points
- Supply-chain costs can be affected by tariffs, customs delays, transportation capacity, financing, labour conditions, and geopolitical disruption.
- A supply chain may be domestic, international, or both.
- Policy measures can try to strengthen supply chains by supporting domestic production, critical minerals, transportation, or strategic sectors.
- Supply-chain disruption can affect prices, delivery times, business margins, and investment decisions.
Why it comes up
Trade, tariff, infrastructure, and clean-technology articles often refer to supply chains when explaining cost pressure or industrial policy.