Tariffs on Medical Imports Could Worsen Syringe Shortages: What This Means for U.S. Healthcare

February 2025 – Novi, MI – A new wave of tariffs on medical imports threatens to further strain the already challenged syringe supply chain in the United States. With McKesson and Medline placing restrictions on syringes—especially 1mL Luer Lock (LL) syringes—healthcare providers face increasing difficulties in securing essential medical supplies.

Impact on Syringe Pricing and Availability

The newly announced tariffs target a range of medical products, including syringes manufactured overseas. These trade restrictions are expected to drive up costs significantly, making it more expensive for hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies to procure syringes in bulk. Additionally, the tariffs will likely slow down imports, exacerbating existing supply constraints caused by global manufacturing bottlenecks and logistical challenges. Domestic manufacturers are struggling to keep pace with demand, as production capacity in the U.S. remains limited. While some syringe manufacturing does take place domestically, scaling up output is not an overnight process. Regulatory approvals, raw material sourcing, and labor shortages all contribute to delays in expanding syringe production within the country.

McKesson and Medline Imposing Syringe Restrictions

In response to these challenges, major medical distributors McKesson and Medline have begun implementing restrictions on syringe orders, prioritizing certain customers while limiting availability to others. The 1mL LL syringe, a critical tool for precise medication dosing and vaccinations, is among the most affected. Healthcare providers who rely on these distributors may experience delayed shipments or partial fulfillment of their orders, further straining patient care operations.

SLI Medical Has Syringes In Stock

Despite these industry-wide shortages, SLI Medical is maintaining a steady supply of both 1mL and 3mL Luer Lock syringes, ensuring that hospitals, clinics, and healthcare professionals have access to the essential medical tools they need. Unlike many larger distributors facing allocation restrictions, SLI Medical is committed to providing reliable stock without excessive wait times. For those in need of immediate syringe supply solutions, SLI Medical has 1mL and 3mL syringes available for purchase now. More details can be found here: SLI Medical Syringe Availability.

What This Means for Healthcare Providers

As the effects of the new tariffs begin to take hold, healthcare facilities should plan accordingly by securing their syringe inventory before potential further disruptions. The combination of increased costs and distribution limitations means providers must be proactive in sourcing from reliable suppliers like SLI Medical to avoid last-minute shortages.

For bulk orders and inquiries, contact SLI Medical today to ensure your facility remains stocked with the necessary syringe supplies. Call (844)239-4058