Tensions between the US and China are spilling over into the world of technology. One of the key suppliers Applu, Pegatron, for example, is now warning that if the situation around the new tariffs doesn't change, US stores could be half empty within two months. And that could also apply to Apple products.
According to Pegatron, the current uncertainty regarding tariffs imposed onminiDonald Trump's loss-making is taking the stage where it is no longer possible to plan for much. While the first wave of tariffs started at 10%, they quickly rose to 145%. While consumer electronics were partially exempted, it was only a temporary measure, and companies like Apple so they face a situation where it is unclear what will be the price tomorrow.
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Pegatron, which assembles, among other things, MacBooky, iPads and Apple Watch, argues that hastily increasing U.S. inventories would cause even more chaos than the impact of the tariffs themselves. The result is a “wait and see” strategy that could leave American store shelves empty.
The head of Pegatron, TH Tung, also commented on the whole situation, saying in an interview with Reuters that the whole plot may resemble "a third world where people go to shops and find nothing". And although the company is not changing its long-term production plans yet, it appeals that the current situation threatens the continuity of supplies and the entire industry. Whether the White Houseonec will yield to pressure and cly will make a thick line, remains to be seen. For Apple and its customers, but the bet on time is becoming increasingly risky.
