University at Buffalo (UB)
Impact on Scientific Equipment/Consumables and Tariffs
Updated January 15, 2026
Tariffs on imported scientific equipment and consumables to the US remain uncertain. The Procurement team is working to minimize impacts of these tariffs and changes to the supply chain.
For consumables: Many domestic suppliers are adding tariff surcharges to purchases. Purchases directly from foreign suppliers are subject to tariffs in effect at time of import.
For equipment: The recommendation is to file for duty-free entry if applicable. Requests for capital equipment should be placed in ShopBlue and not purchased with PCard.
Equipment Duty-Free Application Process
- Complete Form ITA-338P ("Request for Duty-Free Entry of Scientific Instruments")
- Submit five copies to US Customs and Border Protection (one with original signature)
- Work with your vendor on Section 8 to justify lack of domestic alternatives
- Procurement will guide you through this entire process
Purchases from foreign suppliers that are not pre-approved through the duty-free application process will result in an additional customs brokerage invoice for the tariffs in effect at the time of import. The requester/cost approver for the original purchase will be responsible for payment of this customs invoice.
| Country of Origin | Tariff Rate |
|---|---|
| Canada and Mexico | 90-day continuation of the current 25% rate |
European Union Includes: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden | 15% |
| China | 30% |
| Japan | 15% |
| Switzerland | 15% |
| Philippines | 19% |
| Vietnam | 20% |
| Taiwan | 20% |
Please contact Procurement for assistance with tariffs.
