BusinessAugust 17, 2026
decoupling
dee-KUP-uh-ling
Definition
The systematic process of reducing or eliminating economic and technological interdependence between nations or companies.
Etymology
Derived from the prefix 'de-' (meaning off or away) and the verb 'couple' (to join or connect), which traces back to the Latin 'copulare', meaning to join or fasten together.
In the news
In this article, decoupling describes how global businesses are separating their supply chains and tech infrastructures from China to manage political and national security risks. It highlights the high costs and logistical challenges of shifting away from decades of economic integration.
What China decoupling means for global businesses and supply chains
Read the full article ↗qz.com