Trump Plans 100% Generic Drug Tariffs by 2028, Rising to 200% in 2029

3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jul 22

100% tariffs on imported generic medicines would begin in August 2028 and climb to 200% in August 2029 under Trump’s latest trade plan.
Trump said the levies are meant to reshore generic drug production, extending his broader use of tariff threats to push pharmaceutical companies to build more U.S. factories.
Generic drugs make up about 90% of U.S. prescriptions, yet the sector relies heavily on manufacturing in India and on Chinese ingredients—a dependence both parties have called a national security risk.
Doctors and supply-chain experts warn taxing imported generics could raise costs, trigger rationing and worsen shortages, while the generic-drug industry said it would work with the administration and Congress on alternatives.
The move also marks a reversal from the administration’s earlier position that generic medicines would be exempt, and details on how companies could avoid penalties remain unclear.