AdvaMed CEO Scott Whitaker called on lawmakers to exempt medical technology from tariffs during a U.S. Senate Finance Committee hearing. While supporting reshoring efforts, Whitaker emphasized that 70% of medtech used in the U.S. is already made domestically, supporting 3 million jobs.
He warned that tariffs could disrupt a vital and highly regulated industry where products are essential, not optional. Whitaker urged adoption of a reciprocal “zero-for-zero” tariff model in ongoing trade talks, mirroring past treatment of the sector.
Major medtech firms like Cardinal Health, Stryker, and Abbott are already forecasting hundreds of millions in tariff-related losses this year. The complex global supply chains and long regulatory timelines make rapid shifts nearly impossible, reinforcing the need for policy protection.
Follow MEDWIRE.AI for medtech policy and trade news.
