Kimberly-Clark Optimizes Supply Chain Collaboration to Navigate Tariff Pressures

Kimberly-Clark is doubling down on supplier collaboration and cost discipline as it works to offset the impact of rising tariffs on materials sourced from China.

With potential U.S. tariff increases on Chinese goods looming, the company is actively working with partners to identify opportunities for smarter sourcing, better demand forecasting, and inventory agility. Executives say the approach isn’t just about short-term mitigation — it’s about building a more resilient and cost-effective supply chain model that can flex with macroeconomic volatility.

The move follows broader industry shifts as CPG manufacturers aim to reduce exposure to global trade uncertainty by enhancing transparency, improving vendor alignment, and rebalancing origin strategies.

corpbrief insight:

Supply chains aren’t just being managed — they’re being redesigned. Kimberly-Clark’s proactive stance highlights how strategic supplier relationships are now essential to weathering cost shocks and sustaining long-term margin health.