The new import tariffs announced by Donald Trump will affect numerous industries – including the 3D printing community. The US President is planning to introduce so-called “reciprocal” tariffs once again. Depending on a country’s balance of trade, these are to amount to up to 60 percent. Particularly affected: Imports from Asia – including the majority of all 3D printers currently sold on the US market.
Manufacturers operating in the USA, such as Bambu Lab, which produce in China, will have to import their devices with up to 54 percent duty in future. These additional costs are likely to be either passed on directly to the end customer or partially absorbed by the manufacturer. Price increases in retail are considered likely.
In addition to printers, components are also affected. These include stepper motors, belts, bearings and power supply units – in other words, almost all parts that are required in DIY kits or for self-build projects. Filaments could also become more expensive: While PLA products manufactured in the USA are not affected, this does not apply to brands such as Polymaker, which produce in China and subsequently import.
Whether the measures will lead to more production in the USA in the long term remains questionable. Although there could be a re-shoring of printer construction or filament production, for many companies investing in new locations is too risky in view of the unclear political outlook. Should a future government withdraw the tariffs, local production set-ups would suddenly become economically unattractive.
For the community, the new import rules mean one thing above all. Higher entry costs, more planning effort for DIY projects – and a new uncertainty in the price development of hardware and materials.
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