July 22, 2026
Newsweek recently published an article featuring Rena Conti, Professor of Markets, Public Policy, and Law, discussing the Trump administration’s proposal to impose steep tariffs on imported generic drugs and the concerns the policy has raised among healthcare and policy experts.
The plan would place a 100% tariff on imported generic medications beginning in 2028, increasing to 200% in 2029, with the goal of encouraging pharmaceutical companies to move manufacturing to the United States.
Because generic drugs account for roughly 90% of prescriptions filled in the U.S. and much of their manufacturing takes place overseas, experts warn the policy could disrupt supply chains before domestic production is able to meet demand. Potential consequences include higher drug prices, reduced availability of essential medications, and increased healthcare costs for patients and insurers.
“This policy could cause generic drug shortages or aggravate existing shortages,” Conti adds. If the costs of tariffs or reshoring outweigh profits, some generic manufacturers may leave the U.S. market altogether, further limiting access to affordable medications.
