How to Increase US Manufacturing: Make Manufacturing Machines Duty-Free

In recent years, the Trump administration’s tariffs have been touted as a way how to increase US Manufacturing, to boost American manufacturing. With the intention of bringing more production back to the US from overseas, particularly China, Mexico, and Canada, the tariffs aim to shift the balance of manufacturing jobs back to America. However, there’s one crucial factor that is often overlooked in these discussions: the cost of manufacturing machines. If the US wants to truly increase manufacturing capacity and create more jobs, the solution may not lie solely in making overseas manufacturing more expensive but in making it easier to manufacture here by making manufacturing machines duty-free. If we really are asking ourselves how to increase US Manufacturing, this is the best way.

The High Costs of Manufacturing Machines and Their Impact on Small Businesses

Manufacturing machines are a critical part of any production process. Yet, despite their importance, these machines are often highly complex and expensive. Whether it’s a precision CNC machine or an industrial press, the price tag can easily reach into the hundreds of thousands of dollars—or even millions.

For many small to mid-sized businesses in the US, this represents a huge capital expenditure. It’s not always feasible to take on such a hefty price without external financing, and borrowing money for machines can often leave manufacturers with less capital for other important areas of their business.

Even if you can secure the financing to purchase a manufacturing machine, the fact remains that these machines are still best imported. While it’s possible to manufacture some equipment in the US, it’s often more efficient and cost-effective to import machines from established manufacturers with decades of experience. These manufacturers have spent years perfecting their designs and processes to ensure their machines deliver high performance. Plus, many machines rely on high-quality, name-brand components that are simply unavailable from local manufacturers.

The “Big But” in Tariff-Based Manufacturing Policies

While tariffs can make overseas manufacturing more expensive, they also make the cost of imported manufacturing machines higher. This puts small businesses in a tough spot: they may want to increase their domestic manufacturing capacity but are held back by the cost of acquiring the machines that make it possible.

It’s one thing to discourage outsourcing of goods, but it’s another thing entirely to make it harder for US businesses to get the machinery they need to stay competitive. For US manufacturers to thrive, the cost of getting those machines needs to be lower, not higher. This is especially true for small businesses that rely on affordable equipment to grow their operations.

Exactly How to Increase US Manufacturing Can Revolutionize US Manufacturing

The solution is simple: if the Trump administration truly wants to find the best way how to increase US Manufacturing, they should make all manufacturing machines duty-free. By doing this, they would significantly reduce the financial burden on US manufacturers and allow them to invest in the equipment they need to increase production. This action would do far more to stimulate domestic manufacturing than any tariff or trade war.

When small to mid-sized manufacturers save money on importing machines, that’s more capital available for hiring workers, expanding facilities, and increasing production. Additionally, it could lead to increased competition and innovation, giving US manufacturers the tools they need to develop high-quality products that can compete on a global scale.

The Role of Part Distribution in Supporting US Manufacturers

At Part Distribution, we know firsthand the impact that importing manufacturing machines can have on a company’s bottom line. We specialize in helping manufacturers import high-quality machinery at up to 50% less than US reseller prices. For many manufacturers, this savings is crucial in helping them expand capacity and grow their operations.

By importing machines, our clients don’t just get a more affordable product; they often have the ability to purchase additional equipment that might have otherwise been out of reach. More machines means more manufacturing capacity, which translates to more US jobs.

Why We Need to Make Manufacturing Machines Duty-Free—A Call to Action

If you’re reading this and you happen to have Trump’s ear, it’s time to pass along this message: making manufacturing machines duty-free would have a massive impact on US manufacturing. Not only would it help reduce the cost burden for small businesses, but it would also make it easier for US manufacturers to scale and compete globally.

In addition to manufacturing machines, other essential tools—such as tooling, molds, fixtures, and test equipment—should also be made duty-free. These are critical to building a more robust and competitive US manufacturing sector, and reducing the costs of these items would drive growth in ways that tariffs simply cannot.

The bottom line is this: If the goal is figuring out was How to Increase US Manufacturing, then the path forward is clear. Making the machinery that powers our factories duty-free would create a ripple effect, boosting the manufacturing sector and creating more jobs across the country.

Peace of Mind with Part Distribution

By working with Part Distribution, you get the advantage of buying directly from China without the hassle. We ensure that you get a machine that meets your specifications, handle all logistics, and provide support if you need help during the process. Plus, our industry connections mean you can often get the same high-quality plasma cutter that US brands sell—just without the significant markup.