Overview

• White House spokesman Kush Desai said the administration is not actively discussing Section 232 tariffs on generic pharmaceuticals.
• The Wall Street Journal reported that generic drugs and their components are likely to be excluded, though the stance is not final and could change.
• Indian pharmaceutical shares jumped after the reports, reflecting India’s role in supplying about 47% of U.S. generic prescriptions.
• The April Section 232 probe initially covered finished generics, brand‑name drugs and ingredients, while a previously announced 100% tariff on branded imports was not implemented on October 1 and remains under review.
• Policymakers are weighing non‑tariff onshoring measures such as grants or low‑interest loans via a draft executive order, as internal debate continues over the risks of price increases and shortages from taxing low‑cost generics.