Georgia Life Sciences Statement on U.S. Tariff Announcement

Updates: Since this statement was made, the administration announced, April 9, a 90-day pause on reciprocal tariffs. See the AdvaMed  CEO statement on this change. GLS aligns with this statement.


April 3, 2025

The recent U.S. tariff announcement has sent ripples through the life sciences, biotech, and MedTech industries, raising concerns about its potential impact on innovation, manufacturing, and global supply chains. While some sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, have been temporarily exempt from these new tariffs, the uncertainty surrounding future trade policies remains a significant challenge for our industry.

 

These tariffs—set to take effect on April 5—include a base 10% tariff on all countries, with reciprocal tariffs reaching up to 50% on certain nations. There are growing concerns that these measures could increase costs for life-saving medical technologies, disrupt supply chains, and hinder job growth. Additionally, the agricultural biotech sector will likely be affected immediately, particularly with higher tariffs on non-USMCA-compliant goods. Pharmaceuticals, while currently exempt, may face their own tariffs in the near future, pending a potential Section 232 investigation into pharmaceutical manufacturing and national security.

 

Georgia’s life sciences ecosystem thrives on innovation, investment, and global collaboration. Our industry depends on stable, predictable trade policies that support growth, not policies that introduce uncertainty and additional financial burdens. We must ensure that trade policies protect patients, support manufacturers, and sustain the broader biotech and MedTech economy.

 

Georgia Life Sciences will continue to monitor these developments in partnership with our national associations and work closely with our members and policymakers to ensure our industry’s voice is heard. We encourage our community to stay engaged and share any concerns about how these tariffs may impact your businesses, workforce, and supply chains.

 

For questions or to provide input on how these policies affect your organization, please reach out to our team.

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