On July 8, US President Trump delivered remarks at a cabinet meeting, covering tariffs and international affairs. His comments on tariffs and related policy stances have potential implications for global trade, particularly affecting China’s instrument and equipment exports. Below is a structured breakdown of the key points and their impacts:

I. Key Tariff & Policy Remarks from Trump’s Cabinet Meeting

1. Proposed Tariffs on Pharmaceuticals

Trump announced that imported pharmaceuticals and related products may face a maximum 200% tariff in the future, with a 1–1.5-year adjustment period for relevant enterprises to adapt.

2. Considered 50% Surtax on Imported Copper

He also stated plans to consider a 50% surtax on imported copper, a move that immediately pushed US copper futures prices up over 10% to a record high.

3. Criticism of Federal Reserve and Call for Rate Cuts

Citing an unspecified study, Trump claimed tariffs do not contribute to inflation but instead "drive US prosperity." He criticized Federal Reserve Chair Powell for "overworrying about non-existent inflation," called for his resignation, and advocated for immediate interest rate cuts.

II. Potential Impact on China’s Instrument & Equipment Exports

Trump’s tariff policies could pose significant challenges to China’s instrument and equipment sector:

1. Higher Export Costs and Reduced Competitiveness

Increased tariffs on raw materials (e.g., copper) and potential targeted tariffs on equipment exports would raise production and export costs, weakening the price competitiveness of Chinese instruments in the US market.

2. Increased Market Uncertainty and Operational Risks

Policy volatility (e.g., sudden tariff hikes, adjustment periods) creates uncertainty for Chinese enterprises, making it harder to plan long-term contracts, investments, and market strategies.

3. Potential Supply Chain Disruptions

For Chinese instrument manufacturers dependent on US markets or intermediate goods, tariff barriers may disrupt supply chains. Overcapacity risks could emerge if US-bound exports decline sharply.

III. Countermeasures for China’s Instrument & Equipment Enterprises in Overseas Expansion

To mitigate risks and maintain growth, enterprises can adopt the following strategies:

1. Promote High-End, Innovative Products

Shift focus to high-value-added, technologically advanced instruments (e.g., precision medical devices, smart industrial sensors) to reduce reliance on price competition and meet global demand for quality.

2. Diversify Export Markets

Reduce dependence on the US by expanding into emerging markets (e.g., Southeast Asia, Africa, Latin America) and strengthening ties with traditional markets like the EU and ASEAN.

3. Optimize Supply Chains

Build resilient supply chains by localizing production in target markets, sourcing raw materials from multiple regions, and investing in domestic substitutes for imported components.

4. Strengthen Policy Communication and Industry Collaboration

Engage with Chinese and US trade authorities to advocate for fair trade policies; collaborate with industry associations to share market intelligence, lobby for support, and enhance collective resilience.

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