I need you to answer 3 discussion posts from my peers and state whether you agree or disagree. (BUSI 2113 Production and Operations Management)

Post 1. The trade war between the United States and China, which began during the Trump administration in 2018, has caused great tension between the two nations (Mullen, 2022). Concerns over intellectual property theft, technology transfer, market access, and unfair trade practices primarily drove the war. The tension arose following a series of retaliatory measures taken by both countries, which have had far-reaching economic and geopolitical implications. When dealing with trade issues, depending solely on trade wars may not be the most efficient method. Although tariffs can tackle unjust practices, level the competition, increase domestic demand, or address specific trade problems, trade wars usually have negative consequences that lead to economic tensions.

When analyzing the effects of trade wars between nations, like the ongoing one between China and the US, it is critical to consider the potential consequences. These consequences include increased costs and inflation, a scarcity of goods in the marketplace, limited consumer choices, and a decline in trade (Chen, 2022). Specifically, the trade war's impact on farming and manufacturing resulted in reduced agricultural exports and job losses in manufacturing industries. Additionally, trade wars can hinder economic growth and place a strain on diplomatic relations and cultural exchange (Chen, 2022). Therefore, it is essential to consider these factors when assessing the impact of trade wars.

Manufacturers can reduce the risks of trade wars and external operations by assigning a cross-functional team of Operations Managers (OMs) to identify known and unknown risks (cybersecurity) and proactively plan how to mitigate the risks. It is recommended to have a team specifically dedicated to monitoring suppliers' financials, as bankruptcy is a potential risk in the supply chain (Bailey et al., 2019). Diversifying suppliers is also worth considering. The text highlights how Operations Managers seek innovative designs, efficient production, and high-quality goods through international collaborations, outsourcing, and developing long-term partnerships with crucial players in the supply chain (Heizer et al., 2022, pg. 13).

In October 2022, the Biden administration indicated the possibility of reversing the tariffs imposed by the previous administration and lifting import restrictions on goods from China (Chen, 2022). However, it is worth considering whether this action would be timely and effective, given the damage already incurred and existing inflationary pressures. Furthermore, there are valid concerns about potential long-term consequences, such as the need to address shifts in global trade patterns, the reconfiguration of supply chains, and the potential reshaping of international alliances. These complex challenges highlight the difficulty of resolving the trade war's aftermath.

Post 2. The trade war caused hardship for manufacturers, farmers, and high consumer prices. It also weakened the economy and contributed to stock market volatility. Both countries have negatively affected their economies due to the tariff war, and many companies expect to make layoffs. The summary header below clarifies further: The US-China trade war has become an ongoing economic dispute (Itakura, 2020).

As a result of unfair trade practices, the United States began to create trade barriers and tariffs for China. The war over trade caused hardship for manufacturers and farmers, and the result for consumers was high prices. It also weakened the economy and contributed to stock market volatility. There is a decrease in exports and GDP in the United States (Heizer et al., 2022). The imports of goods and services have reduced most. Real exports in China and other North American countries have been drastically reduced. They all had adverse economic effects because of tariff disputes, with many companies planning layoffs.

America's farmers were especially affected by China's reprisals for trade. Their farming exports have been decreasing. In 2019, the United Nations announced that United States tariffs on China impact both countries economically. Overall, foreign direct investment (FDI) has affected the EU economy. However, in some nations, including Chile, Argentina and Vietnam, the trade war and the gap created by the war have gained the economy.

Trade war usually reduces global trade and damages the global economy. Politically superior governments enforce it for short-term gains, giving domestic producers an advantage. Its costs would be lower than heavy-duty products imported, and the customer would receive new orders. However, global economic growth will become troubled in the long term. The trade war damages the global economy, is counterproductive to economic development, and nobody wins the fight. This also creates inflation because import costs rise due to tariffs (Heizer et al., 2022).

By reducing operating costs and diversifying their customer base, businesses may reduce the external threats caused by trade wars. It can help to increase revenue sources from more than one region. The appropriate capital level is the prime method for controlling external risk. Due to poor trading ties, most US firms move manufacturing outside China to overseas operations. A range of solutions are also available to reduce operating costs and pursue other opportunities to minimize risks.

They study supply-related problems and use source optimization in the supply chain network. An assessment of various supply chain possibilities and associated costs States (Heizer et al., 2022). The constant analysis of news and predictive analytics to assess how trade decisions impact their supply chains. Continue your providers master data through the compilation of multi-tier information to understand the presentation of your organization in the extended supply chain.

Post 3. Globalization can have a positive impact on operations by having production facilities around the world that offer more efficient shipping options (Heizer et al., 2019). The impact of ongoing U.S. and China trade issues, tariffs, and lack of agreement has impacted businesses who are looking to strategically grow internationally (Witt, 2019). China has surpassed the U.S. in purchasing power over the past five years and that is creating an impactful power struggle between the two countries and their leaders (Witt, 2019). Other countries and businesses in the U.S. are looking for alternative options to continue to grow their global strategies while tiptoeing around the ongoing negotiations. Restructuring supply chains to exclude China is an option and many businesses are working with Mexico, Canada, and other countries to establish new suppliers (Lester and Zhu, 2020). The U.S. has filed numerous complaints with the World Trade Organization against China and that seems to be having little impact in the short term (Lester and Zhu, 2020).

The articles Ive read on this topic and best practices provided in our textbook would indicate that companies who are expanding globally while avoiding China and the U.S. while negotiations are ongoing will benefit from the lower tariffs, the opportunities to forge new relationships, and exemplify a strong international trading system (Lester and Zhu, 2020). An escalated trade-war or cold-war between the U.S. and China would have a significant impact on several economies and mitigating the economic impact by establishing new supply chains and processes now would remove some of the risk (Lester and Zhu, 2020).