New Section 232 Investigation on Imports of Robotics and Industrial Machinery
On Friday, September 26, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) at the U.S. Department of Commerce announced that it initiated a Section 232 investigation into the national security implications of imports of robotics and industrial machinery, including their parts and components.
The investigation defines “robotics and industrial machinery” as:
- Robots and programmable, computer-controlled mechanical systems;
- General production machinery such as: CNC machining center, turning and milling machines, grinding and deburring equipment, and industrial stamping and pressing machines;
- Supporting equipment, including automatic tool changers, jigs and fixtures, and machine tools for cutting, welding, and handling work pieces; and
- Application-specific specialty metalworking equipment, such as autoclaves and industrial ovens, metal finishing and treatment equipment, EDM machinery, and laser and water-cutting tools.
Under the Section 232 statute, the Secretary of Commerce is authorized to conduct investigations and recommend action to the President, who may impose restrictions such as tariffs, quotas, or other measures if imports are determined to pose a national security risk.
As part of the investigation, BIS has opened a 21-day public comment period, which is currently set to close on Friday, October 17.
Submissions should address issues such as domestic production capacity, import reliance, supply chain vulnerabilities, and the impact of potential restrictions on U.S. industries.
If BIS concludes that imports of robotics and industrial machinery threaten national security, the outcome could significantly affect U.S. manufacturing and recycling operations, given the reliance on imported robotics and industrial equipment across the sector.
In order to prepare a submission on behalf of members, ReMA is seeking feedback to ensure BIS is informed of the potential significant ramifications of new tariffs on industrial machinery, particularly in light of recent additions to the Section 232 steel and aluminum derivatives tariffs.
ReMA is already seeking feedback on imports of industrial equipment, machinery and components as part of the Section 232 steel and aluminum derivatives inclusions process, so the association will also take information provided during that process into consideration as part of this investigation.
Member participation is critical to ensuring that ReMA can advocate effectively and protect the industry’s interests.