Brussels, 8 April 2025
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen today hosted a high-level dialogue with representatives of the pharmaceutical industry to discuss the implications of potential US tariffs on pharmaceutical products. The exchange of views focused on gathering industry concerns and proposals for the most effective EU response.
Participants emphasised the strategic value of this sector to the EU. They raised strong concerns about the broad ramifications of US tariffs, which would hurt both sides of the Atlantic, with implications for globally interconnected supply chains and availability of medicines for European and US patients alike. They called on the European Commission to further strengthen the single market by addressing regulatory barriers and supporting innovative industries.
Participants also called for simplification of procedures in particular for clinical trials and digitalisation of the European health system, as well as for protection of intellectual property. They urged ambition and speed with upcoming initiatives to be presented by the Commission, notably the EU Biotech Act and bioeconomy and life sciences strategies, to strengthen the position of the EU as a global leader in biotech and biomanufacturing.
Finally, participants expressed support for the commitment of the European Commission to reach a negotiated solution with the US. They also shared perspectives on the potential for the EU and US to reduce non-tariff barriers in a mutually beneficial way.
The Commission President and the sector agreed to remain in close contact, to ensure that the interests of the industry, of its workers, and of European patients are well protected in this volatile period.
Source – EU Commission