A new report by DP World and the Journal of Commerce by S&P Global, Nearshoring Unlocked: Strategic Solutions for Supply Chain Resilience in the Americas, examines how shifting trade dynamics are accelerating nearshoring across North America.
With 70% of executives reporting an increased focus on intra-Americas supply chains in the past three years — driven by evolving U.S.-China trade relations — businesses are now prioritizing regional sourcing, supplier diversification, and trade corridor expansion to improve supply chain agility.
This survey-driven report provides actionable insights into the opportunities, challenges, and strategies behind nearshoring, helping businesses navigate supplier reliability, legal compliance, and cost-mitigation efforts.
Key Insights on the Rise of Nearshoring in the Americas
This comprehensive industry report explores the transformation of global sourcing and supply chain resilience in response to geopolitical shifts, regulatory changes, and cost considerations.
Nearshoring is Reshaping Global Trade:
- 92% of executives consider dedicated inter-Americas supply chains increasingly important to their strategic planning.
- Mexico has surpassed China as the United States' top trade partner, claiming 15.4% of US market share—a significant jump from 12.6% in 2017.
- 70% of industry leaders anticipate greater investment and trade expansion in South America over the next five years.
Key Challenges & Solutions in Nearshoring:
- Supplier Reliability: Businesses shifting away from Asia must navigate supplier performance consistency and workforce turnover in Latin America. DP World’s 14 ports across the Americas provide infrastructure support to strengthen nearshoring strategies.
- Regulatory & Trade Compliance: Companies must adapt to complex tariff structures, trade laws, and compliance measures, especially under USMCA regulations. Legal expertise and strategic partnerships are essential to mitigating risks.
- Phased Supply Chain Transition: Moving from Asian suppliers requires a multiyear strategy, including audits, supplier training, and technology integration.
Cost-Optimization Strategies for Nearshoring:
- Optimizing Supply Chains: Consolidation centers help reduce shipment costs by bundling suppliers from the same region.
- Reducing Air Freight Costs: Improved forecasting and planning minimize reliance on expensive air freight.
- Leveraging Free Trade Zones: DP World Caucedo in the Dominican Republic serves as a tax-efficient hub for Latin American manufacturing and distribution.
