While rising labor rates in Asia continue to exert upward pressure on manufacturing costs, net increases should be minimal for this year as wage increases are offset by manufacturing efficiencies and mostly stable raw materials prices. After a year that saw the strong dollar drive up actual costs in dollar-denominated sourcing contracts, a more stable relationship among global currencies will provide welcome stability in pricing. But political risk is higher than ever in 2017, with a new U.S. administration that has promised to punish importers and reward domestic production.

Looking back at 2016, constant currency import ASPs actually declined. SGI’s quarterly ... Log in to view full article.