The Hub Question: Ship From the US, or Build in Asia?

As US brands expand across multiple Asian markets, relying on a US-based supply chain can create growing pressure on cash flow, inventory and replenishment speed. This article examines whether a regional hub in Singapore could offer a more flexible alternative, exploring the impact on freight costs, inventory holding, tax exposure and market responsiveness. It also considers how brands can build regional capabilities gradually, moving from inventory storage to packing and potentially manufacturing as their business scales.