Eli Lilly CEO says company can help 'respond' to national security concerns around essential drugs as tariffs loom

Core Viewpoint - Eli Lilly's CEO David Ricks emphasizes the company's readiness to address national security concerns related to the importation of essential medicines, particularly in light of potential pharmaceutical tariffs being considered by the Trump administration [1][2][3]. Group 1: National Security and Tariffs - The Trump administration has initiated a Section 232 investigation regarding the impact of drug imports on national security, potentially leading to tariffs on pharmaceuticals [2]. - Ricks acknowledges the validity of national security concerns regarding older generic drugs, which constitute about 90% of prescribed medicines in the U.S. [3]. - Ricks expresses uncertainty about whether tariffs are the appropriate solution to these concerns, suggesting that Eli Lilly is open to discussions with the administration on how to respond to potential crises [3][4]. Group 2: Manufacturing and Investment - Eli Lilly plans to invest at least $27 billion to establish four new production sites in the U.S., indicating a proactive approach to domestic manufacturing in response to tariff threats [5]. - Ricks notes that the threat of tariffs is already prompting a resurgence of critical supply chains in industries such as pharmaceuticals [6]. - The company advocates for permanent lower tax rates for domestic production, suggesting that economic incentives could encourage drugmakers to return manufacturing to the U.S. from low-tax countries [6].