MedTech Europe has reiterated the importance of tariff-free trade for medical technologies following the US decision to impose reciprocal tariffs of 15% on the majority of goods from Europe.
The White House’s confirmation of the latest rate, which President Trump previously threatened could be set at 30% if an agreement was not reached by 1 August, follows an agreement made during critical talks between Trump and European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen during the US President’s recent visit to his Scottish golf courses.
A White House communique from 31 July claimed the imposition of the 15% tariff rate was necessary due to a “large and persistent” annual US goods trade deficit that constituted an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to the country's national security and economy.
Under the current deal, zero tariffs have been confirmed for goods such as natural resources, critical raw materials, all aircraft and components, and semiconductor equipment. While there has been no specific word on medical technologies, EU officials expect the list of goods subject to zero rates to be expanded within the coming weeks.
MedTech Europe welcomed the progress made in the recent agreement to avert the “worst-case scenario” but stated it remained “deeply concerned” that the 15% tariff rate may apply to certain European medical technology exports to the US.
According to MedTech Europe, ensuring tariff-free transatlantic trade for medical technologies is paramount, for patients, the provision of healthcare on both sides of the Atlantic, leadership in health innovation, and to ensure competitiveness in the global economy.
MedTech Europe CEO Oliver Bisazza said: “Patients must not bear the cost of trade tensions. Medical technologies are fundamental to delivering care and saving lives.
“Leaving them burdened by tariffs undermines healthcare systems, slows innovation, and ultimately impacts patients. We need to go further. The zero-for-zero solution is urgent.”
MedTech Europe is currently assessing the implications of the EU-US agreement for the medical device sector and said it awaits further details.
In its concluding remarks, the trade body said: “MedTech Europe calls on policymakers to maintain momentum in negotiations and develop a dedicated bilateral solution that fully eliminates tariffs on medical technologies and their essential components.”
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