(WASHINGTON, D.C.) — The Consumer Healthcare Products Association (CHPA) released the following statement today after submitting comments to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) regarding its Section 232 National Security Investigation of Imports of Pharmaceuticals and Pharmaceutical Ingredients:
“Consumer healthcare products, including over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and devices and dietary supplements, play a vital role in helping Americans manage their health affordably and independently, while easing pressure on the broader healthcare system,” said CHPA President & CEO Scott Melville. “These products deliver proven value—every $1 spent on OTC medicines saves over $7 in healthcare costs, totaling $167 billion in annual savings through avoided doctor visits and lower-cost treatment options.
“While building greater domestic manufacturing capacity is clearly a shared goal, and we’re pleased to see the Administration recently underscore the need to give industry time to transition, it cannot happen overnight. Our industry depends on a global supply chain for key ingredients and components, and levying tariffs will undoubtedly increase the risk of out-of-stock shelves, price inflation, and counterfeit or substandard products being introduced into the U.S. market. Many of CHPA’s Manufacturer members are investing in expanded U.S. production, but regulatory, infrastructure, and supply chain complexities can take at least 5–7 years. Given the widespread use of these products, and the fact that a significant majority of them are finished in North America, it’s essential that any tariff actions be phased, flexible, proportional, and targeted to clearly defined national security risks rather than a broad application.
“CHPA’s members remain committed to delivering safe, effective, and affordable healthcare products to the millions of Americans who rely on them daily. We’re thankful for the opportunity to share our perspective in our continued work to support solutions that reflect the realities of global supply chains, promote long-term domestic growth, and preserve consumer access and choice.”
Click here for CHPA’s full comments.
