U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled a series of aggressive tariffs targeting pharmaceuticals, furniture, and heavy trucks in social media posts on Thursday, set to take effect October 1, 2025. The measures aim to incentivize domestic manufacturing while addressing what he called 'unfair' trade practices by other nations.
Pharmaceuticals Face 100% Tariffs
Trump announced a 100% tariff on branded or patented pharmaceutical imports unless companies begin constructing U.S. manufacturing plants. He clarified that 'IS BUILDING' means breaking ground or being 'under construction' by the deadline. This follows his August statement about escalating drug import duties to 250% over 18 months.
Furniture and Truck Tariffs Detailed
A 50% tariff will apply to kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, while upholstered furniture faces a 30% duty. Heavy trucks manufactured outside the U.S. will incur a 25% tariff, which Trump linked to national security concerns. 'We need our Truckers to be financially healthy,' he wrote.
Market Impacts and Industry Response
U.S. furniture prices rose 4.7% year-over-year as of August 2025, with living and dining room furniture up 9.5%, according to federal data. Major pharmaceutical firms have already announced plans to expand U.S. production, though smaller manufacturers remain uncertain about compliance costs.
The Supreme Court is expected to review the legality of Trump's tariff strategy in October, focusing on the use of emergency powers to justify cross-sector duties.
