The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) has expressed concerns over the U.S. Commerce Department's investigation into potential tariffs on robotics and industrial machinery. Jay Timmons, President and CEO of NAM, said that while manufacturers aim to boost capacity in the United States, imposing tariffs on essential manufacturing inputs could lead to increased costs for equipment and machinery nationwide.
Timmons highlighted that such tariffs might hinder investment in new plants and equipment domestically, especially at a time when manufacturers are eager to support efforts to enhance U.S. manufacturing output and job creation. He noted, "Manufacturers are working to increase capacity in the United States—and domestic production of robotics and industrial machinery can enhance both our industrial might and our national security."
He further explained that the current domestic industry can only produce up to 84% of the necessary inputs for building, modernizing, and operating facilities. Consequently, at least 16% of critical manufacturing inputs must be imported to sustain and grow U.S. manufacturing capabilities.
To address this issue, Timmons mentioned that manufacturers have proposed practical solutions aimed at importing these essential inputs without incurring additional costs while incentivizing domestic investment and job creation.
Information from this article can be found here.
