The Trump administration’s announcement on new tariffs targeting pharmaceutical imports will likely be delayed for several weeks, according to multiple official and industry sources. The decision follows a national security probe launched under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962.
- Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick initially projected a conclusion between mid-May and mid-June.
- Tariffs could start small and rise up to 250% over time, with phased implementation to allow for domestic production increases.
- Investigation covers finished drugs, active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and raw materials.
- Pharmaceutical sector currently exempt from broader Trump-era tariffs.
- U.S. has bilateral trade agreements with the UK, Japan, South Korea, and EU for more favorable pharma export terms.
- Sources suggest semiconductor tariff announcement may precede pharmaceutical tariffs.
Relevant Companies
- PFE – Large U.S.-based pharmaceutical manufacturer potentially impacted by import tariffs on APIs.
- MRK – Global drugmaker with significant foreign manufacturing operations.
- TEVA – Major producer of generic medicines with extensive international supply chains.
Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.
