Drug firms seek tariff relief via UK pricing review

Pharmaceutical companies are hoping a review of the UK's medicine pricing scheme will lead to reduced US tariffs as part of a trade deal. This follows a US agreement that left the pharmaceutical sector's tariff status uncertain. The UK government is reviewing a medicine tax that drug companies claim makes Britain "uninvestable." The US had threatened a 25% tariff on UK pharmaceuticals, but the recent trade deal promised "significantly preferential treatment" for the sector. This is linked to a drug-pricing scheme where companies rebate the NHS, which has increased significantly. Industry sources suggest the review is linked to ongoing US tariff talks. The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) says the medicine levy makes the UK uninvestable. The review is expected to be completed next month.