Wilbur Ross says coronavirus could bring jobs back to the US from China
- Donald Trump’s Commerce secretary noted potential US boost when asked about the outbreak’s effect on global economy
- Ross calls virus ‘another risk factor’ businesses must consider, citing Sars and African swine fever
This story is published in a content partnership with POLITICO. It was originally reported by Myah Ward on politico.com on January 30, 2020.
US Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said on Thursday that the coronavirus outbreak in China will help “accelerate the return of jobs to North America”.
“Well, first of all, every American's heart has to go out to the victims of the coronavirus. So, I don't want to talk about a victory lap over a very unfortunate, very malignant disease. But the fact is, it does give businesses yet another thing to consider when they go through their review of their supply chain,” Ross said during an interview with Fox Business Network’s Maria Bartiromo.
In response to a question about how temporarily closed businesses and suspended flights might impact the global economy, Ross said companies will need to look elsewhere after halting operations in China.
“On top of all the other things, because you had Sars, you had the African swine virus there, now you have this,” Ross continued. “It’s another risk factor that people need to take into account. So, I think it will help accelerate the return of jobs to North America, some to the US, probably some to Mexico as well.”