#458 - Beyond China: Smart Sourcing Strategies with Vietnam Insider Jim Kennemer

Vietnam is becoming the go-to sourcing hub for e-commerce sellers. Today's guest shares insights on tariffs, factory clusters, supplier vetting, and scaling beyond China.   Curious about global sourcing dynamics amid trade wars and tariffs? We have Jim Kennemer from Cosmos Sourcing on board to unpack these complexities. Discover how businesses have been navigating the trade landscape since the Trump administration, with Vietnam emerging as a strategic alternative to China. Jim shares his expert insights on why having a backup plan is crucial in this unpredictable environment and how companies have effectively dealt with unexpected tariff changes. Dive into the fascinating shifts in manufacturing, where Chinese companies are setting up shop in Vietnam, preserving factory setups to ensure business continuity.   Join us as we explore the vibrant landscapes of Vietnam and China from a cultural and economic perspective. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the incredible garment industry in Hoi An, Jim's personal experiences shed light on the evolving manufacturing scene. We also discuss the industrial clusters in Vietnam and its reliance on Chinese raw materials, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's potential as a burgeoning manufacturing hub. With anecdotes and insights, we bring to life the realities of working in these dynamic regions, including Vietnam's growing prowess in textile and apparel production.   Looking ahead, we touch on global manufacturing shifts and future trends with Jim's expert forecasts. From Mexico to Africa, we examine the potential and limitations of various regions in the evolving manufacturing landscape. Discover how robotics might revolutionize the industry and why Africa is seen as a promising future hub as wages rise in Vietnam. For anyone keen on understanding international trade, sourcing tips, or the promise of Vietnam as a reliable partner, our discussion with Jim offers vital insights to stay nimble and informed in today's global market.   In episode 458 of the AM/PM Podcast, Kevin and Jim discuss: 00:00 - Trade Wars Impact Vietnam Sourcing 01:55 - Fluctuating Tariffs Trend Discussion 11:53 - Manufacturing in Vietnam vs China 17:00 - Logistics and Industrial Clusters in Vietnam 20:19 - Vietnam Impressions 25:47 - Manufacturing Labor Turnover During Holidays 33:24 - Global Manufacturing Shifts and Future Trends 41:25 - College Football Fanatics Discuss Past Games 49:31 - Forecasting Global Sourcing Trends 51:06 - Product Sourcing Tips for Beginners 53:42 - Tech Pack Details in Clothing Design 57:48 - Sourcing in Vietnam 1:00:03 - Vietnam Sourcing and Negotiation Insights 1:01:11 - Building Relationships With Overseas Manufacturers 1:04:14 - Kevin's PPE Sourcing Success in Vietnam