Technology Trade Wars Accelerate Adoption of AI Software
May 13, 2025
The ongoing trade wars and shifting tariff policies between the US, Europe, and China are disrupting financial markets and global commerce. Companies face delays, higher costs, and increasing demands for trade compliance. The World Trade Organization has adjusted its 2025 trade projections, forecasting a significant drop in merchandise trade and a slight decrease in services trade. North America, in particular, is expected to see exports fall by 12.6% and imports by 9.6%.
This uncertain trade environment is driving tech companies to develop AI solutions that assist businesses in managing trade-related challenges. AI software now supports tasks such as monitoring, tariff calculation, compliance, risk management, and customs documentation. Automating tariff classification, a historically complex and error-prone process, is a key focus. For example, Avalara, a US-based software company, has launched Avalara Automated Tariff Code Classification, which speeds up and simplifies tariff classification using AI.
Governments are also turning to AI to improve customs and tariff enforcement. ScanTech AI Systems, based in Georgia, offers CustomsTrace AI, a tool that helps agencies identify and verify tariff-sensitive goods at borders, reducing illegal imports of restricted items.
Trade tensions force companies to rethink supply chains, inventory management, and manufacturing locations to optimize costs. Supporting these changes requires advanced data management. California’s Avathon delivers AI-powered risk management software for shipping and customs processes, addressing labor shortages and shipping challenges.
As trade tensions ease and markets stabilize, AI companies must focus on sustainable business models to maintain growth regardless of economic conditions. For finance professionals, understanding how AI tools impact trade and compliance processes is increasingly important for strategic planning.
To explore AI tools that can support finance and trade operations, visit Complete AI Training’s collection of AI tools for finance.