BusinessAugust 17, 2026

chokepoints

CHOHK-poynts

Definition

Specific, vulnerable, or constrained parts of a supply chain or process that, if disrupted, can significantly hinder or stop the flow of goods or services.

Etymology

Derived from the noun 'choke' (to compress the windpipe) and 'point,' it originated in the 19th century to describe narrow geographic passages where military movement could be easily blocked.

In the news

The article uses the term to describe the strategic focus of 'de-risking,' where policymakers target specific critical vulnerabilities rather than severing all economic ties with China.

What China decoupling means for global businesses and supply chains

Read the full article ↗

qz.com

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