Trump to impose 100% tariff on imported generic drugs from August 2028

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a plan to impose a 100% tariff on all generic drugs imported into the United States starting in August 2028. The measure aims to pressure pharmaceutical companies into building manufacturing plants within the U.S.

Trump stated on his Truth Social platform that after a two-year period of no tariffs on imported generics from August 1, 2026, a 100% tariff will be applied for one year, followed by a 200% tariff thereafter. He explained that companies failing to establish U.S. factories and production facilities within the specified timeframe will face penalties.

"The purpose of this policy is to protect the American people," Trump emphasized. He also noted that existing policies for patented, branded, and innovative drugs will be maintained successfully. The president highlighted that pharmaceutical production facilities of unprecedented scale are currently under construction across the United States.

This policy is intended to incentivize the relocation of generic drug production back to the United States, potentially impacting global drug supply chains and pricing. The administration's move signals a continued focus on domestic manufacturing and trade protectionism within the pharmaceutical sector.