AdvaMed urges tariff exemption for medical devices amid job concerns

The Advanced Medical Technology Association (AdvaMed) is urging President Trump to exempt medical devices from impending tariffs on imports from China, Mexico, and Canada, citing potential detrimental impacts on the medical technology supply chain and patient costs. President and CEO Scott Whitaker expressed concerns that these tariffs may function as an excise tax, leading to increased prices, layoffs, and decreased research and development. Many medical device companies, including major manufacturers like Medtronic and Intuitive Surgical, rely on overseas production and foreign components, making them vulnerable to tariff-induced cost increases. The industry has previously been granted tariff exemptions, and AdvaMed is advocating for a similar exemption amid fears that tariffs could hinder innovation and elevate costs for patients and payors. Whitaker emphasized that the heavily regulated nature of the industry complicates any quick adjustments to manufacturing in response to tariffs. Overall, the medical device industry is bracing for significant challenges as it navigates these trade policy changes.