U.S. tariffs targeting pharmaceuticals could destabilize global health systems and amplify drug access inequities, experts warn, as debates intensify over proposed measures announced by former President Donald Trump.
Threats to Affordable Medicine
Industry analysts project tariffs may disproportionately impact generic drugs, which account for 90% of U.S. prescriptions. Reuters reports manufacturers of antibiotics and other low-cost medicines could halt production amid rising costs, worsening shortages. The China Chamber of Commerce for Import and Export of Medicines and Health Products noted cumulative tariff rates on medical supplies now exceed sustainable levels, risking supply chain stability.
Public Health Systems at Risk
Xu Ming of Peking University warned tariffs may disrupt global procurement networks, undermining NGOs and UN agencies that rely on affordable medicines for humanitarian aid. Trump’s withdrawal from the WHO and strained international cooperation further threaten pandemic preparedness. Tsinghua University’s Zhou Qing'an emphasized that rebuilding global health governance systems post-conflict "will take decades."
Europe Braces for Economic Fallout
With U.S. pharmaceutical imports from Europe surpassing $30 billion annually, analysts caution tariffs could trigger layoffs and production cuts. European media highlights risks to patient access and healthcare costs, particularly for chronic disease treatments.
