By
Tim Culverhouse
October 21, 2025
Wikimedia Commons user Phasmatisnox, used with permission
Industrial robots and medical devices are under investigation for potential tariffs under new inquiries from the U.S. Department of Commerce from the Trump administration.
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Wikimedia Commons user Phasmatisnox, used with permission
Industrial robots and medical devices are under investigation for potential tariffs under new inquiries from the U.S. Department of Commerce from the Trump administration.
Following President Donald Trump’s September 2025 announcement of an investigation into imports of robotics and industrial machinery, and the potential for tariffs in these sectors, Jeff Burnstein, president of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3), penned a response letter.
The 21-day deadline for public comments began following the September announcement from the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Burnstein and A3 posted their response on October 21.
In a LinkedIn post, Burnstein summarized the letter and A3’s recommendation that the U.S. avoid tariffs on robotics and industrial automation.
“We (A3) believe the US should not impose tariffs on countries whose robots and key components are crucial to making the American robotics industry stronger, but rather to adopt a comprehensive national robotics strategy to regain leadership in this vitally important industry and address national security concerns,” he said.
The 10-page response letter is addressed to the Office of Strategic Industries and Economic Security, Bureau of Industry and Security at the U.S. Department of Commerce.
A3 and its 1,400 members are the largest robotics and automation trade association in the world.
Following the initial tariff investigation, Bloomberg reported that the inquiries began on Sept. 2, and that under federal law, the U.S. Department of Commerce has 270 days to deliver its policy recommendations.
In June 2025, U.S. Representatives relaunched the bipartisan Congressional Robotics Caucus.
Tim is the Editorial Director of Robotics247.com. His mission is to provide valuable information and insights to robotics professionals and decision-makers, and to help them solve business challenges. He is a creative, deadline-driven, and detail-oriented storyteller. In addition, he is a sports broadcaster and public address announcer.
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