MT Magazine July/August 2025

MANUFACTURING MATTERS

THE SALES & MARKETING ISSUE

10

ADVOCACY

Thriving in Today’s Market — Anywhere In today’s unpredictable global climate, many traditional business strategies no longer suffice. Globalization and regional trade blocs like the EU, USMC, ASEAN, and Mercosur now lack cohesion, requiring new approaches to sustain international relationships. So, what can you do to succeed? In the short term, reassure customers that you’re committed to navigating trade barriers, tariffs, and bilateral challenges together. Engage your sales channels to actively support and maintain strong client ties. In the long term, invest in optimizing trade operations, cutting costs, and maintaining your edge through quality, service, and technology. Embrace tools like foreign trade zones and consider localizing operations where practical. For expert guidance and international support, turn to AMT, whose global team – based in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area and Tech Centers around the world – is dedicated to helping you access and thrive in foreign markets – in good times and difficult ones. Trump Administration Releases $1.7 Trillion Budget Proposal for FY2026 At the end of May, the Trump administration unveiled its $1.7 trillion discretionary budget request for fiscal year 2026, signaling significant shifts in federal spending priorities. The proposal includes a 13% boost in defense funding and a record-setting $175 billion investment in border security. In contrast, nondefense discretionary spending would be reduced by nearly 23%. The budget strongly emphasizes research and development, particularly at the National Laboratories, with targeted investments in emerging technologies such as fusion energy, quantum information science, and artificial intelligence. While the administration’s request serves as a blueprint, Congress must now draft and pass the final spending legislation. The House Appropriations Committee has already begun work on the 12 appropriations bills that must be approved before the new fiscal year begins Oct. 1. As lawmakers continue deliberations throughout the summer, August presents a critical window for advocacy. Contact your members of Congress and urge them to prioritize manufacturing as they shape the FY2026 budget. INTERNATIONAL