Brussels, 29 April 2025 – MedTech Europe, together with AESGP and other European associations representing the medical technology sector, has sent an open letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, urgently requesting a meeting to address the growing threat of trade tariffs on medical technologies. The letter highlights the severe consequences these tariffs could have, including disruptions to supply chains, increased production costs, and limited access to essential medical devices and services across Europe.
The medical technology industry is already grappling with significant challenges, such as shortages of critical devices, burdens on regulations, and the risk of losing innovation to other global markets. Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) are especially vulnerable, as tariffs could force many to close, diminishing Europe’s ability to remain competitive in healthcare innovation.
Most importantly, these tariffs could directly impact patient care. The availability of life-saving medical technology solutions could be delayed or restricted, putting the health of patients at risk. Our industry supports the European Commission’s proposal for “Zero-for-Zero” tariffs on trade in industrial goods between Europe and the United States, and calls, in the strongest possible terms, for the extension of this proposal to all medical technologies and their essential components.
The signatories urge the European Commission to act swiftly to protect the medical technology sector, a cornerstone of Europe’s healthcare systems. Failure to address these risks could undermine patient care, drive up healthcare costs, and jeopardise the sustainability of Europe’s healthcare infrastructure.
Read our open letter below.