President von der Leyen hosted representatives of the pharmaceutical industry to discuss the potential impact of US tariffs on pharmaceutical products. The meeting focused on gathering concerns and proposals for an effective EU response.

Participants highlighted the strategic importance of this sector to the EU. They expressed concerns about the broad impact of US tariffs, which would harm both sides of the Atlantic, affecting globally connected supply chains and the availability of medicines for both European and US patients. They urged the European Commission to further strengthen the single market by addressing regulatory barriers and supporting innovative industries.

Participants also advocated for simplifying procedures, particularly for clinical trials and the digitalization of the European health system, as well as protecting intellectual property. They called for ambition and speed with upcoming initiatives from the Commission, notably the EU Biotech Act and strategies for bioeconomy and life sciences, to strengthen the EUs position as a global leader in biotech and biomanufacturing.

Finally, participants expressed support for the European Commissions commitment 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 stay in close contact to ensure that the interests of the industry, its workers, and European patients are well protected in this volatile period.