Resilience Digest June’25
Europe’s Chip Game: Supply Risks, Strategic Gaps, and Unkept Promises
In News Now
EU Chips Act disappoints
EU Chips Act ‘very unlikely’ to reach targets
European chip production: “Promises deeply disconnected from reality” | heise online
Why
- A failure by the EU to significantly expand its chip production means that companies will remain heavily dependent on non-European manufacturers.
- A structural deficit in EU chip production represents a systemic risk that can endanger entire value chains, especially in times of crisis (e.g., pandemics, trade conflicts, natural disasters).
What to Ask
- What measures have you implemented to ensure the availability of semiconductors for your key products during global disruptions?
- How do you manage stakeholder expectations and communicate transparently about risks related to semiconductor availability?
Increased Tariffs on Steel and Aluminium Leads to Trade Tension
In News Now
The Trump administration just doubled the tariffs on steel and aluminum imports
Trump’s 50% tariffs on metals come into effect
EU ‘strongly’ regrets US plan to double steel tariffs
Why
- Supply chain risks: Higher US tariffs are weighing on international supply chains – crisis managers must develop alternative sources of supply and contingency strategies.
- Trade tensions: The risk of an escalating trade conflict with EU countermeasures requires geopolitical risk assessment and scenario planning
What to Ask
- Have you considered what impact would the increased U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminium have on your international supply chains—especially regarding raw material sourcing?
- Does your organisation have a plan B in place for sudden price hikes or supply shortages of steel and aluminium?
Climate Crisis Results in Recurring Heatwave in Europe
In News Now
Summer 2025: Latest predictions for Europe, what Weather to expect in the coming months
Multiple extreme climate events at the same time may be the new normal – Uppsala University
Extreme weather events : A comparative review of ten European coastal cities
Why
- Operational Disruptions and Business Impact:
Increasing weather extremes (floods, heatwaves, storms) pose direct threats to infrastructure, supply chains, and site operations. This can lead to production halts, transport breakdowns, or power outages, requiring rapid response and continuity planning.
- Strategic Need for Climate Adaptation Planning: Companies must incorporate climate-related heat risks into their business continuity and crisis management plans, including facility upgrades, supply chain adjustments, and proactive communication strategies to maintain resilience.
What to Ask
- What health and safety protocols has your organization implemented to protect employees—especially those in outdoor or production roles?
- What monitoring and mitigating strategies have you planned for early warning systems to stay prepared for these climate events and protect your critical infrastructure?
- What communication protocols are in place to inform employees, customers, and partners about your response to heat-related disruptions and health risks?