The evolving landscape of global trade policies, particularly the tariff measures introduced by the Trump administration, has created significant challenges for businesses and economies worldwide. While these shifts bring uncertainty, they also open new doors for investment in strategic locations like Puerto Rico. As a U.S. jurisdiction with deep expertise in advanced manufacturing, the island is uniquely positioned to attract companies looking to mitigate the impact of tariffs while maintaining access to the U.S. market. 

In a recent interview, John Bozek, Chief Strategy and Research Officer at Invest Puerto Rico, shared insights on how the island can turn these global trade disruptions into long-term economic opportunities. 

The Impact of Tariffs and Global Uncertainty 

As Bozek highlighted, tariffs on imports from China and other countries are reshaping supply chains and investment strategies as companies are reconsidering their manufacturing locations due to increasing costs and geopolitical instability. “Many companies started exploring new alternatives, and Puerto Rico is gaining attention as a stable, strategic option within the U.S.,” Bozek explained.  

Bozek highlighted that the new policies could also increase costs for consumers and industries across the United States, including Puerto Rico. While many businesses adopt a wait-and-see approach, Invest Puerto Rico proactively identifies opportunities within this shifting landscape to mitigate this effect.  

Puerto Rico’s Competitive Edge 

According to Bozek, the tariffs are prompting multinational companies to reevaluate their global supply chains. This reconsideration has led some businesses to explore Puerto Rico as a viable alternative for their operations. 

Invest Puerto Rico has been actively engaging with global investors and industries now reassessing their supply chains. “In the past four months alone, we’ve been in conversations with companies that previously wouldn’t have considered Puerto Rico, but given the new trade environment, they see the island as a viable solution,” Bozek stated. 

Puerto Rico offers a compelling value proposition for companies looking to navigate the impact of tariffs while maintaining access to the U.S. market:  

• U.S. jurisdiction: Ensures regulatory alignment and market access without the risk of tariffs. 

• Advanced manufacturing expertise: A long-standing leader in pharmaceutical and medical device production. 

• Highly skilled workforce: A bilingual, educated labor pool with deep industry experience. 

• Established infrastructure: Industrial facilities and incentives designed to support manufacturing growth. 

New Investment Opportunities in Key Sectors 

Puerto Rico has long been a global pharmaceutical powerhouse with more than 70 years of experience, producing 17 of the world’s top-selling drugs. However, the island’s advantages extend beyond pharmaceuticals into medical devices, biosciences, and high-tech manufacturing. 

“With tariff pressures increasing, we are seeing interest from companies in northern Mexico’s medical device cluster looking to relocate production lines to Puerto Rico,” Bozek revealed. “This is just one example of how shifting global trade policies create new opportunities for the island.” 

A Proactive Approach to Attracting Investment 

To capitalize on these emerging opportunities, Invest Puerto Rico is proactively engaging with decision-makers worldwide. The organization has participated in major industry conferences, including SelectUSA and Bio International, and is conducting commercial missions to showcase Puerto Rico’s strategic advantages. “We were recently in Spain and India, where companies seek a foothold in the U.S. market. Puerto Rico offers a cost-effective, high-quality solution,” Bozek noted. 

In addition, Invest Puerto Rico is working closely with the government, the Department of Economic Development and Commerce (DEDC), the private sector, and academia to ensure that the island is fully prepared to attract and support new business investment. This collaborative approach strengthens Puerto Rico’s position as a competitive destination by aligning policy, workforce development, and infrastructure initiatives to meet the evolving needs of global industries. 

“It’s not about waiting for companies to come to us—we’re actively identifying the right industries and making a case for why Puerto Rico should be their next investment destination,” he added. 

Retaining and Expanding Existing Operations

While new investments are crucial, retaining and expanding current operations is equally important. The shifting trade policies may catalyze companies already in Puerto Rico to expand rather than relocate elsewhere. “For companies that may have been considering leaving Puerto Rico, these new trade measures give them more reasons to stay and even grow their production lines on the island,” Bozek explained. 

Preparing for the Future

While shifts in global trade policies take time to materialize, Puerto Rico is ensuring it remains ahead of the curve. “These are long-term strategic decisions for companies,” Bozek emphasized. “A new facility won’t appear overnight, but we must be prepared. That means having the workforce, industrial properties, and infrastructure ready to meet demand when opportunities arise.” 

Despite challenges, including the need for continued improvements in infrastructure and energy systems, the outlook remains optimistic. “We are not just reacting to change—we are positioning Puerto Rico as a proactive, forward-looking investment destination,” Bozek concluded. 

The Time to Act is Now

As global companies navigate the complexities of tariffs and trade policies, Puerto Rico stands out as a safe, cost-effective, and strategically positioned location for investment. By leveraging its U.S. status, robust manufacturing capabilities, and skilled workforce, the island is ready to welcome new business opportunities.  

As the world adapts to new economic realities, Puerto Rico is not just keeping pace—it is positioning itself as a strategic hub for companies looking to thrive in the evolving global market. Contact us today to learn more about why Puerto Rico is the right choice for your business.