At the Annual Compliance conference recently held in London, Baker McKenzie hosted its session on “Geopolitics, Trade Disruption and Tariff Wars: Developing a Global Business Strategy”. The panel, chaired by Tristan Grimmer, featured speakers from our team across the globe, and explored the evolving landscape and its implications for international commerce.
Rod Hunter, based in our Washington D.C. office, opened with an overview of the current U.S. Administration’s trade policy, emphasizing its transactional, zero-sum approach to global markets. The Administration’s use of tariffs, sanctions, and regulatory tools has reshaped assumptions about international trade, compelling businesses to reassess their global footprints.
Jenny Revis, Global Head of our Customs practice, then focused specifically on the global tariff environment, highlighting that whilst the landscape remains volatile, the consensus is that tariffs are becoming a long-term fixture. Countries are adopting varied strategies, with some retaliating, whilst others attempt to take a more conciliatory approach.
Frank Pan, based in Beijing/Shanghai, analysed China’s retaliatory actions, including tariffs, export controls on rare earths, and sanctions targeting certain U.S. entities. Frank highlighted how these moves are disrupting global supply chains and forcing companies to reconsider sourcing and manufacturing strategies.
Jannan Crozier, our Global M&A Chair, discussed how geopolitical uncertainty has affected deal-making, with periods of turbulence, but also renewed optimism; despite recent events, it is expected that M&A activity will continue to rise, driven by capital availability and strategic realignments, particularly relating to alternative markets.
Our panel then examined the regulatory landscape, noting the expansion of foreign direct investment (FDI) reviews globally. The panel also discussed supply chain developments, outlining how companies are adapting by utilising strategies aimed at mitigating risk and enhancing resilience. In closing, the panel stressed the importance of keeping up to date with rapid changes, and utilising data-driven decision-making to navigate the risks of ongoing geopolitical disruption which will be here for the long-term.
You can access all materials from the Annual Compliance Conference 2025 here.
