100 per cent tariff on drug imports in the US
Washington : President Donald Trump on Thursday announced a new tariff policy targeting pharmaceutical imports, announcing a 100% levy on branded or patented drugs entering the United States beginning October 1. The move is expected to have significant implications for global drugmakers, including major Indian pharmaceutical firms.
“Starting October 1st, 2025, we will be imposing a 100% tariff on any branded or patented pharmaceutical product, unless a company is building their pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in America,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. He clarified that “building” would be defined as “breaking ground” or being “under construction.”
The announcement marks a sharp escalation in Trump’s push for domestic manufacturing and economic nationalism. Industry analysts warn the policy could disrupt supply chains and increase drug prices for American consumers.
The tariff plan extends beyond pharmaceuticals. Trump also announced:
A 50% import tax on kitchen cabinets
A 30% tariff on upholstered furniture
A 25% tariff on heavy trucks manufactured outside the U.S.
In a separate post, Trump emphasized the truck tariffs were aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturers such as Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, and Mack Trucks. “For many reasons, but above all else, for national security purposes!” he wrote.
The new measures come amid broader efforts by the administration to reduce reliance on foreign manufacturing and incentivize companies to invest in U.S. production facilities.
