GE HealthCare Highlights Supply Chain Moves, Downplays Middle East Exposure

Executives say company's direct business in the region is less than 5% of overall operations.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 4:36am

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GE HealthCare Technologies (NASDAQ:GEHC) executives told investors at a Barclays conference that the company's direct exposure to the Middle East is 'definitely less than 5%' of overall business, while management is prioritizing employee safety and business continuity amid regional disruptions. The company discussed supply chain resiliency, tariff mitigation efforts, contrast media competition, and its near-term product pipeline.

Why it matters

As a major global medical technology company, GE HealthCare's operations and supply chain are closely watched for signs of disruption, especially in volatile regions like the Middle East. The company's comments on its limited regional exposure and focus on supply chain agility provide reassurance to investors about its ability to navigate potential geopolitical risks.

The details

GE HealthCare executives said the company has a commercial presence in the Middle East and some manufacturing in Israel that supplies the world, including PET and certain 'spec devices,' as well as some ultrasound output. To mitigate operational risk, the company emphasized ensuring logistics corridors to move product out of Israel and maintaining adequate inventory outside conflict zones. Management also discussed tariff mitigation efforts, noting the company reduced an initially estimated 'tariff bill' of about $1 billion to $250 million. Regarding contrast media competition, GE HealthCare highlighted factors like consistency of supply, product quality, brand recognition, and portfolio breadth that it believes can differentiate its performance.

  • GE HealthCare provided the update at a Barclays conference on March 16, 2026.

The players

GE HealthCare Technologies

A global medical technology and diagnostics company that develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of products and services for healthcare providers.

Jay Saccaro

A GE HealthCare executive who discussed the company's Middle East exposure, supply chain initiatives, and contrast media competition.

Phil Rackliffe

A GE HealthCare executive who highlighted recent product launches in ultrasound and interventional technologies.

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What they’re saying

“We must prioritize safety, continuity and ensuring products can be delivered globally 'in the most effective way,' acknowledging potential disruptions but noting overall exposure is small.”

— Jay Saccaro, GE HealthCare Executive

What’s next

GE HealthCare said it expects to begin receiving orders for its total-body PET and photon-counting CT imaging platforms in the second half of 2026, with the 'lion's share' of revenue contribution expected in 2027.

The takeaway

GE HealthCare's comments highlight its focus on supply chain resilience and its ability to navigate potential geopolitical risks, even as it faces competition in key product areas like contrast media. The company's limited Middle East exposure and proactive mitigation efforts provide reassurance about its operational stability.