Navigating Tariffs with Technology: Insights from rSTAR and Emerson
“With tariffs constantly shifting, organizations must understand the financial impact and build resilient mitigation strategies. Technology and data are no longer optional, they’re essential.”
A Strategic Conversation on Trade, Technology, and Transformation
In today’s volatile global trade environment, tariff complexity is becoming a daily operational challenge for manufacturers. During our recent webinar, Navigating Tariffs with Technology, rSTAR Technologies and Emerson brought together industry leaders to explore how digital tools and intelligent data strategies are helping organizations stay agile, compliant, and competitive.
Meet the Experts:
Together, they unpacked the realities of tariff management and shared actionable insights for global manufacturers navigating this evolving landscape.
Key Takeaways from the Discussion
Tariff Dynamics
The tariff landscape is fluid and often unpredictable. From IEEPA tariffs to product-specific and country-specific duties, organizations must stay vigilant. Importers bear full responsibility for accurate customs declarations—even when working with brokers. Late-week regulatory updates with immediate effect demand real-time responsiveness.
Mitigation Strategies
Companies can reduce tariff exposure through Free Trade Agreement (FTA) analysis and duty drawback programs, which offer refunds on duties for exported or destroyed goods. These strategies require precision and eligibility validation but can deliver significant savings.
Data as a Strategic Asset
Accurate, harmonized data is the foundation of effective tariff management. Key sources include:
ERP Systems and Landed Cost Visibility
ERP platforms play a central role in managing landed costs, incorporating duties, tariffs, freight, brokerage, and insurance. With tariffs and shipping rates fluctuating rapidly, real-time updates are essential.
AI’s Expanding Role
AI is transforming tariff operations by automating HTS code assignments, harmonizing data, and improving forecasting. It can also support inventory optimization and scenario planning. However, organizations must maintain oversight—importers remain accountable for AI-generated classifications.
How Leading Manufacturers Are Responding
Manufacturers are diversifying supply chains, reshoring production, adjusting pricing strategies, and investing in trade risk management technologies. The goal: build resilience and agility in the face of global uncertainty.
Technology Investments That Matter
To stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape, companies are aligning technology investments with business strategy. This includes:
Key Takeaways
Tariff management is no longer a back-office function, it’s a strategic imperative. As global trade continues to evolve, organizations must leverage technology to turn complexity into clarity and risk into opportunity.
At rSTAR, we’re proud to partner with industry leaders like Emerson to empower manufacturers with the tools and insights they need to navigate complexity and lead with confidence.
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