Buy American: When a Government Votes With Its Wallet

Back in 1933, the United States passed the Buy American Act-a law that requires federal agencies to prioritize purchasing goods made in the U.S. Over the decades, it has become more than just a symbol of economic patriotism. It’s the backbone of American industrial policy-resilient even in an era of globalization.

And nearly 100 years later, the law is still going strong. In fact, in the 21st century it has been upgraded with digital tools and new oversight mechanisms, making it a powerful lever to support domestic manufacturers.

Buy American isn’t just a slogan-it’s a system. A system with strict rules, modern tracking tools, and political accountability.

In its updated form:

• ⁠ ⁠At least 75% of a product’s components must be made in the U.S.
• ⁠ ⁠Any exception must go through a dedicated office in the White House
• ⁠ ⁠All exceptions are published publicly
• ⁠ ⁠A digital tracking system monitors what’s being bought and where it comes from

Why Is It Still Effective?

1.⁠ ⁠Transparency

The U.S. has built a procurement system where data on government contracts, suppliers, and product origins is publicly accessible. Tools like SAM.gov allow anyone to track purchases in real time.

2.⁠ ⁠Political Accountability

If an official tries to bypass the rules without a solid reason, it won’t be swept under the rug. Media investigations, public scrutiny, and political pressure keep the system honest.

3.⁠ ⁠Institutional Oversight

Foreign products aren’t allowed just because someone says so. Every exception goes through a formal process involving the Made in America Office, which operates independently and reports to the executive branch.

How Does the System Work?

• ⁠ ⁠Product origin is tracked down to parts and supply chains.
• ⁠ ⁠The 75% U.S.-made rule encourages manufacturers to localize production, invest in domestic supply chains, and create American jobs.
• ⁠ ⁠There’s auditing, certification, and regular reporting. Violators can face fines, be banned from future contracts, or have current deals canceled.

One of the strongest forces behind the system? The public. Journalists, activists, labor unions, and even competitors regularly flag violations. This adds a layer of reputational risk-which can be just as powerful as legal enforcement.

In a world facing supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, and a push for tech sovereignty, the U.S. is turning inward-reviving domestic industry and strengthening local collaboration.

Buy American has become a cornerstone of this strategy, helping:

• ⁠ ⁠reduce reliance on foreign suppliers
• ⁠ ⁠protect and create jobs
• ⁠ ⁠and boost local industries

Government procurement isn’t just about buying things-it’s about shaping the economy.

Buy American is not some outdated law gathering dust. It’s a living, evolving system that blends digital oversight, public accountability, and strategic policy. It turns federal spending into a tool for economic transformation.

Because when a government puts its money where its mouth is-real support begins not with words, but with contracts.