As a provider of telecommunications services, we depend on suppliers to provide us, directly or through other suppliers, with items such as equipment for our network, handsets, tablets, accessories, other mobile communication devices, other components and raw materials. Changes or proposed changes in U.S. or other countries’ trade policies that result in higher tariffs, restrictions, and other economic disincentives to international trade have occurred in the past, and in the future may occur, which may materially increase the costs we incur in developing, deploying and maintaining our network and offering products and services to our customers. A certain portion of the increased costs may be absorbed by certain suppliers, but some suppliers may struggle to absorb the increased costs, especially over the long term, potentially leading to supply disruptions or cost pass-throughs to us that may require us to increase the prices we charge our customers. In addition, rapid changes in trade policies may negatively affect procurement timelines and supplier relationships and may introduce new compliance requirements. We may face delays in sourcing critical equipment due to customs clearance and supply chain bottlenecks, and material changes to cost structures could pressure our expenses and customer pricing.
Our attempts to mitigate potential disruptions to our supply chain and offset procurement and operational cost pressures, such as through alternative sourcing and/or increases in the selling prices of some of our products and services, may not be successful. Higher product or service prices for our customers may make it more difficult to attract new customers or increase customer churn. Furthermore, we may not be able to offset any cost increases through productivity and cost-saving initiatives. To the extent that cost increases result in significant increases in our expenditures, or if our price increases are not sufficient to offset these increased costs adequately or in a timely manner, and/or if our revenues decrease, our business, financial condition or operating results may be adversely affected.