URGENT: Tariffs on Pharmaceuticals Pose Great Threat to Contraceptive Access
THE ISSUE: The Trump Administration has threatened to impose tariffs on pharmaceuticals, a move that could significantly increase the cost of essential medications and lead to rationing and shortages. Although President Trump has repeatedly stated his intention to use tariffs to encourage the return of drug manufacturing to the United States, experts argue that such measures are unlikely to achieve that goal. Relocating pharmaceutical production would be extraordinarily costly and could take years to implement. The administration initiated an investigation under Section 232, a legal authority previously used to justify tariffs on industries such as automobiles and lumber. This risky tariff proposal not only jeopardizes access to commonly used medications like antibiotics but also threatens the availability of contraceptives. Much of the U.S. supply of these products is manufactured abroad, in countries such as China, Mexico, India, and Thailand. These tariffs could create widespread disruptions in pharmaceutical access and spark a reproductive health crisis.
WHY IT MATTERS: This issue is especially critical for American women, who are likely to be disproportionately impacted by pharmaceutical tariffs, particularly when it comes to birth control and other female-oriented medications. With 65.3% of U.S. women aged 15–49 relying on contraception, any disruption in access threatens not only their health but also their autonomy and control over their reproductive choices. Tariffs could worsen the already fragile pharmaceutical supply chain. There are currently 270 active drug shortages in the U.S., and many generic drugs, comprising about 90% of prescriptions, are manufactured by only one or two companies. If even one producer exits the market, it could lead to higher prices and reduced availability, especially for medications like antibiotics and contraceptives. For low-income women or those with limited healthcare access, these barriers could result in unintended pregnancies, rising healthcare costs, and harmful health outcomes. Experts warn that rather than encouraging domestic production, tariffs may intensify shortages and deepen U.S. dependence on foreign suppliers. In effect, these proposed tariffs risk creating a reproductive health crisis, undermining women’s rights to accessible birth control — as well as supplies of life-saving medications.
STATUS: The Trump Administration is currently investigating medical and pharmaceutical imports to the United States. The probe must be completed within 270 days, though the results could be released sooner. We must speak out about protecting the health of all Americans and for reproductive freedom. Congress is currently in recess and will return on April 25th.
YOUR MESSAGE: IT IS VERY IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO CONTACT YOUR REPRESENTATIVE AND SENATORS NOW BEFORE THE INVESTIGATION IS COMPLETE. PHARMACEUTICAL TARIFFS THREATEN THE HEALTH OF EVERY AMERICAN. TELL THEM “NO TARIFFS ON IMPORTED PHARMACEUTICALS!”
The Capitol switchboard number is 202-224-3121; a list of Representatives appears here, https://www.house.gov/representatives . For the Senate, go to https://www.senate.gov/senators/ .