Pharmaceutical giants urge EU for favorable regulations amid fears of increased competition and tariffs.
European pharmaceutical companies, including prominent firms such as Bayer, Merck, Sanofi,
AstraZeneca, and Novartis, have issued a warning to Brussels regarding the potential implications of stricter trade policies.
They express concern that increased tariffs could threaten their current market operations in Europe and prompt a shift of investments to the United States, which they describe as offering more favorable conditions for business.
In a communication addressed to Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations emphasized that the United States currently leads Europe in critical areas assessed by investors, such as capital availability, intellectual property protection, approval speed, and innovation incentives.
The companies argue that the imposition of tariffs, combined with existing challenges in the EU market, creates a disincentive for investment in Europe.
They call for a fundamental shift in EU policies, advocating for stronger intellectual property protections and consistent legislation on environmental and chemical policies to retain competitiveness.
The stakes are particularly high, with the pharmaceutical industry warning that over 100 billion euros in investments could be jeopardized if the current trajectory of regulations continues unaltered.
The transatlantic exchange of pharmaceuticals and active ingredients is substantial, with EU exports to the U.S. valued at 90 billion euros, highlighting the importance of this trade relationship.
The U.S. stands as the largest pharmaceutical market globally, accounting for half of all drug sales, including those from both domestic and European manufacturers.
The ongoing concerns expressed by European pharmaceutical companies suggest a significant leverage point in negotiations with the EU concerning future regulatory frameworks.