WASHINGTON — The National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) has submitted formal comments to the U.S. Department of Commerce as part of its investigation into the national security implications of pharmaceutical and active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) imports.
In its statement, NACDS supports the Administration’s goals of strengthening domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing but emphasizes the need for a phased, targeted approach that safeguards Americans’ access to essential medications and their local pharmacies.
“NACDS and our members are committed to helping achieve the Administration’s objectives to enhance America’s national security interests and reduce dependence on foreign pharmaceutical manufacturing,” said Steven C. Anderson, president and CEO of NACDS. “This goal can be achieved while maintaining a careful balance to prevent disruptions in medication access for the American people and further strain on the nation’s pharmacies.”
Key recommendations from NACDS include:
- A phased and targeted plan to support U.S. manufacturing,
- Exemptions for critical or in-shortage medications, particularly generics,
- Comprehensive PBM reform to strengthen the pharmaceutical supply chain.
The Commerce Department’s inquiry, initiated under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, aims to assess the risks associated with heavy reliance on foreign pharmaceutical sources. NACDS warns that poorly structured tariffs could worsen medication shortages and increase pressure on pharmacies that are already facing challenges.
“Given how deeply Americans rely on the nation’s pharmacies for access to healthcare, and as the ‘last mile’ of the pharmaceutical supply chain, we urge the Department to carefully consider the impacts of this investigation on pharmacies,” said Anderson. “Our members serve as healthcare lifelines in communities nationwide — we cannot afford disruptions that leave pharmacy shelves empty.”
NACDS’s full comments align with its mission to improve healthcare access, reduce costs, and “Make America Healthy Again.”
