#componentsourcing

Desk of Ladyada - Tariff Talk! ASK AWAY! 📦🌎💸

We're doing the show tonight or Tues, so much is going on. Lots more questions came in too! Post yours before we go live…

This week was not a big week for engineering because we're neck-deep in tariff management! We had a video on Wednesday about the first round of tariffs announced—they have since been ratcheted up to 20% + 125% = 145% minimum on products from China and Hong Kong. "Retaliatory" tariffs on products from other countries have been paused, but there's still a 10% global tariff.

Then on Friday, it looks like some HTS codes

were "exempted" temporarily

Let's take a look at the CBP (link) and the exempt tariff codes

and see how they might apply to the kinds of stuff we use to do our electronics engineering.

The Great Search - How to Source Tariffed & Non-Tariffed Items on DigiKey

https://www.digikey.com/short/2nb7nzb3

Since this is the topic of the day, we'll be looking at how to purchase an item from DigiKey with tariffs in mind. DigiKey is a free trade zone, which means that if you're not in the USA, you will not have to pay additional tariffs on goods that are re-exported. However, for USA destinations, the new tariffs can add a significant cost if the component has its last manufacturing step in China.

That usually sounds reasonable until one part becomes the schedule driver.

Prototype sourcing is mostly about getting enough material in fast enough to keep engineering moving.

Pilot-build sourcing has to support a real lot with fewer approval gaps, clearer alternate-part control, and better alignment with inspection, testing, and release timing.

That is why a sample-ready BOM is not automatically a pilot-ready BOM.

We broke that transition down in a new article here:

https://www.pcba-china.com/info/how-component-sourcing-changes-between-prototy-103469052.html

In today’s technology-driven world, electronic components are the foundation of innovation. From smartphones and EVs to IoT devices, industrial automation, and renewable energy systems — the demand for reliable and high-quality components has never been greater. The global electronics market is projected to grow steadily, driven by advancements in AI, 5G, automotive electronics, and smart manufacturing. This surge in demand presents both immense opportunities and challenges for manufacturers, distributors, and sourcing teams worldwide.

The Growing Demand Across Industries

As technology evolves, the need for precision components like semiconductors, capacitors, sensors, resistors, ICs, and power modules continues to rise.

Automotive Electronics: Electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous systems rely on high-performance sensors, power electronics, and microcontrollers.

Consumer Electronics: Devices such as smartphones, wearables, and smart home systems require compact, energy-efficient components.

Industrial & IoT Applications: Automation, robotics, and IoT devices depend heavily on durable and reliable components for continuous operation.

Telecom & 5G: The rollout of 5G networks globally is increasing demand for RF modules, antennas, and high-frequency components.

This booming demand has led to challenges in supply chain management, sourcing reliability, and price volatility — especially for small and medium manufacturers that lack access to global supplier networks.

Challenges in Global Component Sourcing

Despite technological progress, sourcing electronic components remains complex. Buyers often face issues such as:

Long lead times and component shortages.

Counterfeit risks and quality inconsistencies.

Lack of transparency in supplier capabilities.

Difficulty finding verified global suppliers for specific or obsolete parts.

On the other hand, sellers and manufacturers struggle to reach global buyers and promote their expertise in a competitive market. This is where GF365 Electronics Marketplace brings transformation.

How GF365 Helps Buyers and Sellers

GF365 is a global B2B platform designed to simplify electronic component sourcing and trading. With over 20 years of global sourcing experience and a network of 10,000+ verified suppliers, GF365 connects trusted manufacturers, distributors, and buyers from around the world.

✅ For Buyers:

Access a verified global supplier network with pre-checked capabilities.

Save time and cost with ready capacity and quality checks.

Get access to hard-to-find components through global sourcing support.

Enjoy smooth transactions with trusted partnerships and quality assurance.

✅ For Sellers:

Reach new international buyers and expand your global presence.

Boost visibility with GF365’s co-branding and marketing support.

Build credibility through a verified profile and transparent sourcing process.

Discover how ChipsOnSale.com specializes in procuring hard-to-find military components like the 5960-00-003-6290. Learn about their efficient services, extensive inventory, and commitment to delivering obsolete and discontinued parts promptly to meet your critical needs.​ For more information visit-