Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter Urges U.S. Commerce Department to Avoid Broad Tariffs on Robotics and Machinery Imports

Pontiac, Mich. - Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter has submitted formal comments to the U.S. Department of Commerce expressing concern that proposed broad tariffs on robotics and industrial machinery imports could have significant, unintended consequences for local employers, innovators and workers.

In a letter to the department, Coulter emphasized Oakland County's national leadership in robotics, automation and advanced manufacturing, noting that these sectors are vital to both the county's economy and America's competitiveness in emerging technologies.

"Oakland County is home to several global robotics manufacturers and integrators, along with a growing number of start-up robotics, AI, and automation firms," Coulter said in the letter. "Our collaborative efforts with industry leaders, universities, students, and research facilities are helping to build a robust ecosystem that blends industry, academia, and entrepreneurs. We believe this collaboration is exactly the type of domestic foundation that the U.S. needs to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers."

According to Oakland County data, fabricated metal and machinery manufacturing generated $3.5 billion for the local economy in 2024, supporting more than 20,000 jobs and with average annual earnings exceeding $110,000 per worker. Roughly 67 percent of local demand for machinery is currently met through imports, illustrating both the industry's global integration and the potential impact of new trade barriers.

Coulter's letter warns that tariffs could lead to higher costs for employers, reduced investment in modernization and diminished competitiveness for companies large and small. He also noted that robotics and automation support industries far beyond automotive manufacturing, including aerospace, healthcare, food production and logistics.

"Oakland County is proud to be a national leader in robotics and advanced manufacturing. The region continues to actively invest in our startups, workforce development, and university-industry partnerships to ensure we remain competitive in automation and emerging technologies. We believe tariffs would risk undermining this leadership, slowing our progress, and weakening our competitiveness," Coulter said.

The county's comments encourage the Department of Commerce to explore targeted approaches or exemptions that protect national security interests without undermining the nation's technological leadership.