The European automotive supply chain encountered significant hurdles in 2024 as electrification demand fell short of expectations, leading to low investment returns and widespread cost-cutting measures. Companies have scaled back expansion plans and implemented layoffs, with uncertainty surrounding future orders and potential financing difficulties looming in 2025.

On December 11, 2024, the US Trade Representative (USTR) announced modifications to tariff actions under Section 301 of the Trade Act, targeting specific Chinese products. These measures aim to address long-standing issues related to China’s technology transfer, intellectual property practices, and innovation policies. The updated tariffs, which will take effect on January 1, 2025, include new rates on tungsten products, polysilicon, and wafers.

Apple’s Vision Pro, its first mixed-reality (MR) headset, is approaching its first anniversary in February 2025. However, projections for 2024 shipments stand at just 500,000 units, well below the company’s initial goal of one million units, indicating poor market performance.

Nvidia has added hundreds of staff in China this year to enhance its research capabilities and focus on new autonomous driving technologies.