President Trump has announced tariffs of up to 100% on certain imported medicines, with exemptions for generics for at least one year. The move aims to pressure drugmakers to lower prices and increase manufacturing within the US.
The tariffs will apply to branded drugs and their active ingredients, but exclude orphan, veterinary, and specialty drugs from trade deal countries or those addressing urgent public health needs. Companies or countries reaching pricing agreements or investing in US manufacturing can secure lower or no levies.
This action, unveiled on the anniversary of previous trade levy implementations, escalates the administration’s trade strategy and raises national security concerns. The tariffs are the latest attempt to tax imported goods and reshape global supply chains.