By
Tim Culverhouse
September 25, 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.
The United States has opened a national security investigation into imports of robotics and industrial machinery.
The Trump administration launched these investigations under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, according to Bloomberg.
The potential for tariffs on robotics and industrial machinery - specifically medical devices - could potentially affect U.S. manufacturing reshoring efforts.
The U.S. has imposed tariffs on numerous countries and industries, but robotics, automation and industrial machinery have largely gone untouched.
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.
Jeff Burnstein, president of the Association for Advancing Automation (A3) and a recent speaker at the 2025 Robotics Applications Conference (RAC 25), posted a five-page inquiry on his LinkedIn page.
He said that there is a 21-day response window to the inquiry, and A3 is actively working on its response.
Bloomberg reported that the inquiry will focus on the following robotics and industrial machinery areas:
The other element of the inquiry will focus specifically on medical devices. Prescription drugs, biologics and other pharmaceuticals are currently under tariff examination as part of another U.S. Department of Commerce investigation.
For more tariff coverage, follow Peerless Media’s Logistics Management and Supply Chain 24/7.
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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