U.S. to Levy 100% Tariff on Branded, Patented Medicines Unless Companies Construct Locally

Washington — President Donald Trump declared that the U.S. will be imposing a 100% tariff on all imported branded and patented medicines from Oct. 1 unless drug manufacturing companies are constructing manufacturing units locally.

The exemption is for existing projects under construction, Trump declared on Truth Social. It's part of his wider attempt to make America make things again.

The statement also came with new tariffs: a 25% tariff on heavy trucks and a 50% tariff on vanities and kitchen cabinets, imposed the same date.

The move is a follow-up on a Section 232 inquiry into the national security effects of importing drugs. Industry associations have alerted the administration that the tariffs might increase drug prices, interfere with supply chains, and also discourage investment.

Trump initially even considered imposing tariffs of up to 250% on drugs, hinting Thursday's action would be the initial step in increasing the hikes even further.