The next wave of U.S. reciprocal tariffs will target pharmaceuticals, raising concerns that the supply of drugs in Taiwan may be affected. Health Minister Chiu Tai-yuan (邱泰源) said Tuesday that the government will make preparations to this end; the National Health Insurance (NHI) system also has measures in place to maintain the adequacy and safety of pharmaceutical drugs.
Last week, U.S. President Donald Trump said he would soon announce tariffs on imported pharmaceuticals. The move may threaten low-cost global trade in finished medicines, which for the most part have not been taxed or have been only minimally taxed for the past three decades.
Pharmaceuticals imported from the U.S. currently account for about 10% of drug costs under the NHI system. Chiu says that if imported drug prices increase, NHI will conduct a cost analysis and adjust the price accordingly.
Of particular concern is ensuring the import volume of cancer drugs for domestic use. Chiu assured that the government has the means to ensure that the people of Taiwan have access to the care they need.
