Nine more drugmakers join Trump's MFN pricing deals, terms still unclear

The Trump administration announced a new round of most-favored-nation drug pricing deals with nine mid-sized companies, joining a total of 26 firms responsible for about 90% of branded US prescriptions, and extending MFN pricing to state Medicaid programs and future launches. In exchange for lower prices aligned with other developed countries, the companies will receive relief from certain tariffs and have pledged to invest at least $19.6 billion in US manufacturing, with several also contributing active pharmaceutical ingredients to a federal stockpile known as SAPIR. Sun Pharma, Teva, Astellas, UCB and other participants have committed to extending MFN pricing to Medicaid and future innovative medicines, while some deals include API contributions to SAPIR to bolster domestic supply chains. Critics, including Democratic lawmakers, say the details remain opaque and question whether all parties are fully subject to tariff relief or mandatory pricing programs; administration officials argue the measures will lower costs and expand U.S. production. The government asserts these deals cover the bulk of drugs used by Americans, though specifics on which drugs are discounted and by how much have not been publicly disclosed. The announcements come ahead of midterm elections, as the administration touts healthcare affordability and a shift of manufacturing activity back to the United States.