Impact on Patients and Supply
Experts warn that without tariff exemptions, US patients may face skyrocketing pharmaceutical prices, with potential sectoral tariffs ranging from 7.5% to 100% on imports from China.
The complex supply chain and stockpiles may temporarily insulate consumers from immediate price hikes, but the long-term impact could be significant, especially for essential medications.
Industry Response and Concerns
Pharmaceutical giants like AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly, and Johnson & Johnson have expressed strong opposition to the proposed tariffs, emphasizing the negative impact on patient care and health equity.
The industry's reliance on global supply chains, particularly for generic drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients from China, underscores the potential for increased costs and shortages.