3D Printing Is Going Metal, Bringing Big Opportunities To Manufacturers

3D printing is set to have seismic implications on manufacturing companies, especially in relation to cross-border trade. Also known as additive manufacturing, 3D printing can lessen labour needs, reducing the need to source parts and goods across borders. If today’s pace of technological development continues, manufacturers’ sourcing practices and production strategies are set for massive changes.

“3D printing has the potential to restructure supply chains, as manufacturers switch to using on-premise additive manufacturing capabilities. This could result in the reduction of a company’s geographical footprint for sourcing raw materials, potentially lowering indirect taxes and reconfiguring taxable jurisdictions and transfer pricing strategies,” Rick Schreiber, Managing Partner in Assurances and Advisory Services and head of BDO USA’s Manufacturing & Distribution practice, says.