Plastic Injection Molding Tariffs: Preparing Your Business

The Reasoning Behind New Tariffs

The rationale of tariffs under the current administration is similar to those in the past, incentivizing US manufacturing of materials like steel, aluminum, and plastics and their finished products while providing revenue to the US government. The threat of tariffs can also be levied to produce more favorable trade—one tool in the arsenal of a trade war. While long-term tariffs could potentially build up US manufacturing, they will also raise the cost of manufacturing, which can have profound effects on manufacturers, businesses, and consumers.

How Tariffs Impact US Businesses & Manufacturing

A good example was the 25% tariff on steel imports, which was imposed in 2018 and maintained but then expanded in March 12th, 2025, to remove exceptions, exemptions, and cover more derivative products (and also bring aluminum imports into line at 25% as well). US manufacturers who use imported steel and aluminum struggled under the 2018 tariffs, and many took measures in 2024 after the presidential election to further safeguard their livelihoods and brace for higher costs.

Concerns About Plastic Injection Molding Tariffs

The plastics sector could see a similar shift for those importing plastic parts, goods, or raw polymer resin from across the border or overseas. In early February, tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico were set to go into effect before last-minute talks paused them. The Plastics Industry Association (PLASTICS) issued their concerns about these tariffs, stating:

“PLASTICS is concerned about the new tariffs and their impact on U.S. plastics manufacturing and jobs. While we understand President Trump’s rationale, a blanket tariff policy could have significant economic consequences, disrupting the movement of essential machines, products, and materials that keep American manufacturers running. A competitive industry requires policies that protect high-quality jobs and ensure stable supply chains across sectors like healthcare, consumer products, and automotive. A strategic, measured approach to trade is critical to strengthening — not inadvertently harming — U.S. industry.”

What You Can Do to Prepare Your Business

Due to the international nature of the free market, ripples will be felt across industries when tariffs come into play, especially any blanket ones. The 10% tariff on all Chinese goods has kicked off a trade war, meaning further tariffs, both blanket and specific, may come. If you’re reliant on foreign plastic parts right now, you need to:

• Shorten Your Supply Chains: Similar to 2018, as the trade war heats up, shortening your supply chains will be vital. Getting your tool relocated to start injection molding closer to home is easier than you think.
• Invest in US Manufacturing: While you may have to increase costs domestically, you can turn these into strengths for your products. Avoiding the drawbacks of overseas manufacturing, the quality of your products can increase to counteract costs.
• Protect Your Products: Now more than ever, your products will need to be made of high-quality, US-sourced plastics. This, combined with the strengths of US manufacturing and IP protection, will give you products that can better weather uncertain economic times.

At Midstate Mold, we know the benefits of working with US manufacturers—we’ve been producing plastic injection molding and plastic injection parts since 1965, right here in Franklin, Massachusetts. With a focus on high-quality plastics alongside Industry 4.0 robotics and AI, we’re ready to get your business braced for tariffs by providing dependable products and supply chains—including push-pull logistics—anywhere in the US. Contact us today to get started.