Twenty-five percent of world trade could be wiped out by 2060 as result of 3D printing technology: ING -
According to estimates provided by a report from ING, progress in 3D printing technology will see one-quarter of world trade wiped out by 2060, with carmakers among the most affected. The report describes 3D printing technology as still in its infancy but said that once high-speed mass production becomes economically viable, 3D printing would lead to “less trade growth because 3D printers use far less labor, reducing the need to import intermediate and final goods from low wage countries.” If investment in the technology were to double every five years, that impact could be seen as early as 2040, the report suggests.
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