US begins tariff investigation into German pharmaceutical trading practices

22 June 2026

US begins tariff investigation into German pharmaceutical trading practicesAzlan Stock/Shutterstock.com

The US Trade Representative has begun an investigation under s301 of the Trade Act 1974 to determine whether Germany’s “persistent underpayment for innovative pharmaceutical products is unreasonable or discriminatory and burdens or restricts US commerce”.

If the investigation finds that German trade practices have amounted to an unjustifiable burden, s301 allows the USTR to impose tariffs and other import restrictions. The US congressional research service has published a briefing on s301. Public comments are invited by 10 August 2026.

Maya Lester KC

Maya Lester KC is a senior barrister (King’s Counsel) at Brick Court Chambers with a wide-ranging practice in public law, European law, competition law, international law, human rights & civil liberties. She has a particular expertise in sanctions. She is the…

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