COVID-19: Why are supply chains breaking down?

A worker pulls a cart of coronavirus aid items being prepared for shipment, at a World Health Organization, WHO, facility, part of the International Humanitarian City, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, March 5, 2020. In an open expanse of desert in Dubai, seven World Health Organization workers are racing to sort, package and send out hundreds of shipments of medical supplies to countries around the world battling a new virus that has spread fast, disrupting life for millions of people globally. (AP Photo/Kamran Jebreili)

Because of efficient international trade, companies get the supplies they need on demand—no need to stockpile. But with dwindling inventories and supply chains at a standstill, will U.S. manufacturers be able to make medical supplies? That depends on whether companies get direction and financial incentives from the government, says Nada Sanders, professor of supply chain management. 

In this episode, we talk to Nada Sanders (distinguished professor of supply chain management).