‘Examining impact’: India’s first response to 100% pharma tariffs by US; concerned ministries ‘monitoring matter’

NEW DELHI: India on Friday issued its first official response to reports that US President Donald Trump announcing imposition of tariffs of up to 100 per cent on imports of branded and patented pharmaceutical drugs from October 1.During the weekly briefing, MEA’s official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We saw a notice yesterday on social media that talked about new tariffs. We’ve seen the report on pharma and other products, and the relevant ministry and department are closely monitoring the matter and examining its impact.”While Jaiswal did not provide details on any immediate diplomatic or trade responses, he clarified that relevant ministry officials have taken cognizance and talks will be held with them for specific details.The development comes amid growing concerns over trade negotiations between the US and India, enhanced by these recent tariffs, where India is a leading global supplier of both generic and patented medicines.tariffs on branded and patented pharmaceutical exports has rattled Indian pharma stocks, even though most Indian companies primarily earn from generic drug sales in the US. The US is India’s largest pharmaceutical export market, accounting for around 35 per cent of total exports, valued at approximately $10 billion in FY25. Experts are assessing the potential impact on companies that generate 30–47 per cent of their revenue from US operations, particularly if the tariff measures are extended to include complex generics and specialty medicines.