The global business landscape is being reshaped in real time. The US recently imposed sweeping new tariffs, prompting more than 60 countries to prepare retaliatory measures and brace for disruption, while major exporters face further restrictions on sensitive goods.
Trade routes are being rerouted due to geopolitical tensions. Regulatory frameworks are becoming more complex and fragmented. Disruptions — from cyberattacks to climate shocks to supply chain breakdowns — are becoming more frequent and pervasive.
According to the World Economic Forum's Chief Economist Outlook, May 2025, 89% of economists believe governments need to increase investment in AI infrastructure and 86% say businesses must lead adoption across key industries to ensure long-term growth. While the report highlights the challenge of maintaining investment amid global uncertainty, it underscores a critical point: businesses that hold their nerve and invest in intelligent infrastructure now will be best positioned to thrive long-term.
In this volatile environment, the traditional view of trade as a purely operational, compliance-driven function is dangerously outdated. What used to be a static operation is now a dynamic battleground that demands foresight, speed and strategic control. Yet, most enterprises still manage trade with disconnected systems, manual trackers and enterprise resource planning rules written for a different era. Managing a fast-changing and increasingly high-stakes business environment requires leaders to treat trade as a strategic control point that informs sourcing decisions, margin management, risk posture and real-time adaptability.
