The Center for American Principles released a statement from President Tony Zagotta in response to the White House announcement that it will exercise its authority under Section 232 of U.S. trade law to impose a 100% tariff on pharmaceutical products imported into the United States.
In the statement, CAP reiterates its commitment to free enterprise and cautions against government intervention that could disrupt complex biopharmaceutical supply chains. CAP warns that tariffs on pharmaceutical products and inputs risk raising costs for American patients, interrupting critical supply chains, and creating potential shortages of essential medicines.
The statement also notes that while some large pharmaceutical companies may receive exemptions from the tariff measure through pricing agreements, smaller biotechnology firms remain particularly vulnerable. Start-up and mid-cap innovators—many of which rely on continuous investment to support research and clinical trials—could face significant financial strain as they attempt to adapt to new supply chain costs and disruptions.
CAP emphasizes that strengthening America’s pharmaceutical resilience should focus on coordinated strategies to secure supply chains and expand domestic capabilities alongside trusted international partners, rather than relying solely on tariff-based policies.