Geopolitics x Legal

Sanctions & Trade

Pharmaceutical 100% Tariff: First Wave July 31

Following a Section 232 investigation citing 54% of US patented pharmaceuticals manufactured abroad, a 100% baseline tariff on pharmaceuticals takes effect for Annex III companies on July 31, with remaining companies following September 29. Company/country-specific exclusions and rate reductions exist for approved onshoring commitments; EU/Switzerland/UK/Japan rates are aligned with trade agreemen

BY FRONTIER DESK · JULY 23, 2026 · 1 MIN READ

Following a Section 232 investigation citing 54% of US patented pharmaceuticals manufactured abroad, a 100% baseline tariff on pharmaceuticals takes effect for Annex III companies on July 31, with remaining companies following September 29. Company/country-specific exclusions and rate reductions exist for approved onshoring commitments; EU/Switzerland/UK/Japan rates are aligned with trade agreement frameworks. Trump also announced July 22 that generic drug manufacturers must move production to the US or face 100% duties from August 2028. For life sciences counsel, the exclusion application process and onshoring commitment documentation are now urgent client deliverables.

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