How are FDI trends in the U.S. impacted by manufacturing activities?

Biden’s Manufacturing Push Attracts FDI and Factory Surge

President Joe Biden’s policies to bolster U.S. manufacturing have sparked a surge in foreign direct investment (FDI) and factory construction, potentially creating an influx of jobs.

FDI Boost for Manufacturing

The CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act provided incentives for domestic production of semiconductors and clean energy technologies. This has attracted foreign investors, with FDI in the manufacturing sector increasing 65% since 2019.

“Companies are looking to reshore or friendshore,” said Monty Turner of Colliers Site Selection. “The U.S. offers attractive operating costs and incentives.”

Factory Construction Boom

U.S. manufacturing construction spending has tripled in the past three years, reaching $233 billion annually. Manufacturing accounts for over 30% of industrial space under construction, according to Yardi Matrix.

Atlanta, the host city for the first presidential debate, has experienced an uptick in manufacturing construction due to its central location and transportation infrastructure.

Jobs Impact Yet to Materialize

Despite the surge in manufacturing activity, job growth has lagged behind. Manufacturing employment remains stagnant, with only a 1.4% increase since the start of the pandemic.

“We anticipate that manufacturing will drive activity in industrial real estate, but it will be years before the impacts are fully seen,” said a Yardi Matrix report.

Biden’s Tariffs Aim to Protect U.S. Manufacturing

In January 2024, the Biden Administration imposed tariffs on clean energy technology imports from China. This move was intended to support American manufacturers in the face of cheaper competition.

“Plants that build solar panels and semiconductors won’t create jobs if they are undercut by cheaper Chinese goods,” said Peter Kolaczynski of Yardi Matrix.

Biden and Trump: Battle for Manufacturing Support

A recent survey of manufacturing executives revealed that President Biden is narrowly preferred to steer the sector over former President Trump. However, Trump is seen as better equipped to address key issues like inflation and supply chain disruptions.

As the 2024 election draws near, the candidates’ plans for manufacturing will likely be a focus of debate. Biden can point to his administration’s efforts to boost FDI and factory construction, while Trump may emphasize his focus on tax cuts and tariffs to support American manufacturers.