The American Hospital Association urged the Commerce Department to avoid imposing tariffs on imported medical goods that hospitals rely on to deliver care, according to an Oct. 17 comment letter.
The letter was submitted as part of the department’s Section 232 national security investigation into imports of personal protective equipment, medical consumables and medical devices. AHA officials said the proposed tariffs could disrupt supply chains, hinder access to essential tools and protective gear and significantly raise hospital costs.
The association also advocated for a tariff exception process for goods in shortage and for preservation of the Nairobi Protocol, which provides duty-free treatment for devices used by people with chronic conditions or disabilities.
Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act authorizes trade restrictions if imported goods are found to threaten national security. The AHA said any actions taken under the provision should balance national interests with the need for reliable, affordable access to clinical supplies.
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