Manufacturing technology firms are facing an escalating trade policy risk: The Section 232 steel and aluminum tariffs were expanded in August to include derivative products, such as machining centers and industrial robots.
Even more recently, the U.S. government announced a new Sec. 232 investigation into robotics and industrial machinery, putting capital equipment imports squarely in the crosshairs. The investigation covers a number of manufacturing technologies, including “CNC machining centers, turning and milling machines, grinding and deburring equipment … industrial stamping and pressing machines … automatic tool changers, jigs and fixtures … machine tools for cutting, welding, and handling work pieces … Application-specific specialty metalworking equipment used to treat, form, or cut metal, such as autoclaves and industrial ovens, metal finishing and treatment equipment, EDM machinery, and laser and water-cutting tools and machinery.”
These policy changes could mean increased duties, added uncertainty, greater demand for legal clarity, and real margin risk for OEMs, suppliers, and integrators. At a moment like this, MTForecast 2025 isn’t just a conference – it’s a strategic lifeline. Held Oct. 15-17, 2025, in Schaumburg, Illinois, MTForecast gives you tools, intel, and connections you can use right away to navigate the Sec. 232 turbulence.
1. Legal & Trade Prescription From K&L Gates
As the scope of Sec. 232 investigations expands to robotics and machine tools, you need clarity on how to respond. MTForecast speakers like David Skillman of K&L Gates will provide insight into tax and trade policies affecting your business, as well as tactical guidance on adjusting your business strategy to mitigate risk.
David previously served as counsel to a senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee and contributed to the development of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement on trade. His wealth of experience navigating these issues means attendees can expect insights on the effect of the policy changes and what to keep an eye on as the landscape shifts in the future.
2. Influence Advanced Manufacturing Policy
The new Sec. 232 probe serves as a reminder for manufacturers that government policy affects their businesses and that they have a voice. Fortunately, MTForecast includes a town hall led by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) focused on the 2026-2030 Advanced Manufacturing Strategic Plan, providing you with a rare opportunity to directly influence how the government prioritizes advanced manufacturing research. This isn’t passive listening; rather, it is a chance to shape policy and speak directly with government officials.
3. Updated Economic Forecasts Post-Tariff Shock
When tariffs are levied, markets shift. With tariffs on some MT products rising and most equipment under investigation, forecasts based on pre-Sec. 232 assumptions are now obsolete. At MTForecast, you’ll see revised outlooks from:
The Federal Reserve (interest rates, credit, investment demand)
Oxford Economics (capital goods demand and updated MT outlook)
ITR Economics (demand modeling in manufacturing industries)
These sessions let you stress-test your models and build conservative scenarios for 2026 and beyond in this trade environment. All economists will incorporate the impact of new tariff developments into their forecasts to ensure you have the most accurate information for your business.
4. Industry Experts Offer Tactical Tools for Sec. 232 Shock
The announcement of the Sec. 232 probe and inclusion of certain products in the Sec. 232 derivative tariffs caught many off guard. Predictability is tough, and uncertainty seems to be the new standard. These developments raise complex questions around cost pass-through, classification, compliance readiness, inventory management, and more. At MTForecast, experts like Jeff Radichel, Dr. Lorien Pratt, and Joe Sullivan will zero in on:
Scenario-based playbooks for impacted capital equipment and expecting the unexpected
Tools that demonstrate how manufacturers can integrate AI, data, human expertise, and more to support informed decisions that lead to measurable outcomes.
The leading signals and trailing metrics to know if your market strategy is positioning you for business growth
These sessions go beyond theory and provide actionable frameworks you can apply when you return to the office on Monday.
5. Peer Wisdom & Networking Sessions
In a fast-evolving tariff news cycle, the best intel sometimes comes from your peers. One of the most valuable parts of MTForecast doesn’t happen on stage but in the hallways, over coffee, or during the various receptions offered. The event draws senior leaders from across the manufacturing technology ecosystem, and the conversations you’ll have between sessions often spark ideas or partnerships that shape strategy long after the conference ends.
Whether it’s comparing notes with another executive on how they’re handling the uncertainty or what they are seeing in the market, MTForecast offers opportunities to meet and learn from other leaders in the space. Having a network to lean on is invaluable in today’s market environment.
Takeaway
With Sec. 232 policy now touching a growing list of manufacturing technologies, the stakes are higher than ever. MTForecast 2025 offers not just analysis but also tactical market, economic, and peer-driven insight into the shifting terrain. If you’re going to navigate challenges and seize opportunities with confidence, you need the right roadmap.
Connect with speakers, explore the agenda, and register for MTForecast, which will be held Oct. 15-17, 2025, in Schaumburg, Illinois.
