TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Health Minister Shih Chung-liang (石崇良) said Taiwan’s drug exports should not be affected by President Donald Trump’s plan to impose a 100% tariff on branded or patented pharmaceuticals, as most shipments are generics or active pharmaceutical ingredients that are exempt.

However, Taiwan imports about 214 patented medicines, of which roughly 75 are classified as essential and irreplaceable, and could face price increases. Shih said the ministry will closely monitor price fluctuations, per CNA.

Since returning to the White House, Trump has announced new tariffs across several sectors. He said on Truth Social the United States will levy a 100% tariff on all brand-name or patented drugs starting Oct. 1, unless the company is currently building a manufacturing facility in the US.

Shih said the tariff effects fall into two areas: exports and imports. Based on current reporting, the targets are brand-name (“original”) drugs and medicines still under patent, typically considered “new drugs.”

Because Taiwan exports relatively few new drugs, the impact on local pharmaceutical exporters will likely be limited. The domestic industry effect is also expected to be modest.

Imports still under patent require closer attention. Of the 214 patented medicines Taiwan currently imports, about 75 are deemed irreplaceable essential drugs and are most likely to be affected.

Shih said the Cabinet’s NT$20 billion (US$656 million) allocation to National Health Insurance under special regulations will be used to stabilize domestic drug prices and manage future fluctuations, ensuring access to needed medications.