Foreign-reliant

Foreign-reliant describes a state, industry, or individual that depends heavily on goods, services, resources, or expertise sourced from other countries. This dependence can manifest in various forms, including critical supply chains, technological dependencies, financial investments, or reliance on foreign markets for sales. Such reliance can create vulnerabilities, especially during periods of international instability, trade disputes, or geopolitical tensions, potentially disrupting supply lines, increasing costs, and impacting economic stability or national security.

Foreign-reliant meaning with examples

• The nation's automobile industry became increasingly foreign-reliant, with vital components sourced from overseas suppliers. This created challenges during periods of global supply chain disruptions. The reliance on foreign technology also meant limited control over innovations and the cost of maintaining systems, impacting the industry's long-term competitiveness and responsiveness to the changing market.
• A small island nation's food supply was foreign-reliant, with a significant portion of its dietary staples imported. This exposed the population to price fluctuations and potential shortages. It led the government to encourage local agriculture, creating a desire for stability, and exploring methods of self-sufficiency in food production and strengthening disaster preparedness.
• The company's manufacturing process was highly foreign-reliant. Raw materials and specialized components were exclusively procured from other countries, making the company vulnerable to shifts in currency exchange rates and trade tariffs. The firm was also exploring how to diversify sourcing to mitigate risks and bolster the supply chain resilience.
• The research institution's advancements were partially foreign-reliant. It relied on collaborations and access to resources and equipment from international partners. The institution proactively strengthened domestic research capabilities and fostered collaborations with internal resources in an effort to decrease the risk of the existing dependencies.