Trump Unveils Plan for Major Tariffs on Imported Medicines

President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that the U.S. will soon roll out “major” tariffs on medicines imported from other countries. Speaking at a National Republican Congressional Committee event, he said the goal is to push drug companies to make their products in the U.S. instead of relying on places like China. While he didn’t share exact details about when or how big these tariffs will be, Trump made it clear he wants to see more American-made medicines.

“We want these companies to create jobs here, in America, not overseas,” he said. This comes after his administration recently introduced broad trade policies, like a 10% tax on imports from everywhere and a huge 104% tax on Chinese goods, set to start soon. Up until now, medicines had been left out of those plans, but Trump’s latest statement changes that.

He believes these tariffs will help bring back manufacturing jobs and make the U.S. less dependent on other countries for essential drugs. Some people agree, saying it could strengthen America’s economy and security. But others aren’t so sure. Critics, including economists and drug industry experts, worry that higher costs for imported medicines could mean pricier prescriptions for everyday Americans, putting extra pressure on families already struggling with healthcare bills.

The news has rattled global markets, with stock prices dropping as people fear a bigger trade fight. European drug companies are nervous, telling the European Commission that they might have to move operations to the U.S., which could hurt their home economies. China, meanwhile, has complained to the World Trade Organization, saying the U.S. is breaking international trade rules. As the White House gets ready to share more about this tariff plan, both the drug industry and regular people are waiting to see how it’ll play out.