1. AI is Driving Innovation
Raimondo is optimistic about the potential of AI and tech innovation to drive economic growth and solve complex problems, including tariff management, across the global supply chain. She says America's leadership in AI is encouraging: "I'm excited about what AI will enable — and I'm also excited that America leads the world in AI.”
2. Scenario Planning for Resilient Supply Chains
"I'm all in because this matters," Raimondo said to the audience, stating that she's optimistic about the potential of AI and tech innovation to drive economic growth and solve complex problems across the global supply chain. In order for businesses to succeed, she described, they need to “assume the worst and have a plan for it.” AI solutions can then provide an essential way to mitigate risk and plan for the many "what-ifs" in today’s volatile trade environment.
3. The Need for Public-Private Collaboration
To address complex economic and security challenges, Raimondo underscored the necessity of public-private partnerships. She highlighted the power of collaboration, saying, "The most successful things I have done have been in the collaboration of the private sector and the government… We need to have more mechanisms for continuous dialogue between the public sector and the private sector."
4. Economic Security is National Security
Raimondo views economic security as an integral component of national security. She told the audience of trade leaders that "national security equals economic security plus military security." However, achieving it means unlocking a new level of supply chain visibility that extends to tiers 3, 4, 5, and beyond. “I maintain that even the best CEOs in America — they don’t know what’s going on in their tier 3, 4, 5, and 6 in their supply chain. I’m telling you, they don’t.” 5. De-Risking, Not De-Coupling
Rather than a strategy of 'de-coupling' from China's economy, Raimondo advocated for 'de-risking.' She emphasized the importance of reducing dependency on China while maintaining economic ties. "I think it's a good thing if China is successful, if their economy is successful. I don't think we ought to be in the business of destroying their economy." She explained, "It's not decoupling, but it is de-risking, because we are dangerously dependent." 
