Trump Imposes New Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China; Medical Industry Seeks Exemptions
President Trump issued executive orders on February 1, 2025, imposing new tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, effective February 4, 202513.
The tariffs are set at 25% for imports from Canada and Mexico, with a lower 10% rate for Canadian energy resources. China faces a 10% tariff on all imports13.
The tariffs are justified under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, citing national security concerns related to illegal immigration and the fentanyl crisis3.
Canada and Mexico have announced intentions to implement retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports12.
The medical technology industry, represented by AdvaMed, is lobbying for exemptions from these tariffs, citing concerns about potential impacts on the medical supply chain and healthcare costs46.
AdvaMed argues that tariffs could lead to reduced R&D, innovation, potential layoffs, and higher prices for patients and payers in the medical technology sector46.
During Trump's first term, most medical devices were exempted from tariffs on Chinese imports, and the industry is advocating for a similar approach now46.
The tariffs are expected to have significant economic impacts on all countries involved, potentially disrupting established trade relationships under NAFTA and USMCA2.
The White House claims these measures are necessary to hold Canada, Mexico, and China accountable for promises to halt illegal immigration and stop the flow of fentanyl into the United States3.
The situation remains fluid, with ongoing negotiations and potential for adjustments to the tariff policies6.
Sources:
1. https://www.whitecase.com/insight-alert/president-trump-imposes-25-tariffs-canada-and-mexico-and-10-tariffs-china
2. https://supplychaincompliance.bakermckenzie.com/2025/02/03/trump-tariffs-further-updates-from-canada/
3. https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/02/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-imposes-tariffs-on-imports-from-canada-mexico-and-china/
4. https://www.auntminnie.com/practice-management/associations/article/15736508/advamed-urges-medical-technology-exemption-from-all-tariffs
6. https://www.medtechdive.com/news/Advamed-medtech-exemption-Trump-tariffs/739040/