House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
UK-US Arrangement on Pharmaceuticals Pricing and Tariffs
13 April 2026 · Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
Proposed by Kanishka Narayan Lab Vale of Glamorgan
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The UK-US Arrangement on Pharmaceuticals Pricing and Tariffs has been published.
- The government aims to improve patient access to new medicines and clarify US pricing policies.
- Tariff-free access for pharmaceutical exports and mutual recognition of medical device approvals are proposed.
Issue summary
The UK-US Arrangement on Pharmaceuticals Pricing and Tariffs has been published, building on previous economic prosperity deal announcements.
Action requested
The government is taking steps to improve patient access to new medicines, clarify US pricing policies, support pharmaceutical exports with tariff-free access, and work towards mutual recognition of medical device approvals. These actions aim to enhance the life sciences sector's competitiveness and drive economic growth.
Key facts
- The UK-US Economic Prosperity Deal was announced in May 2025.
- NICE cost effectiveness threshold update benefits two medicines for brain cancer and rare stomach cancer patients.
- Section 232 tariffs of up to 100% on patented pharmaceuticals have been avoided, providing certainty for UK exporters.
- UK pharmaceutical exports to the US were worth over £5 billion in 2024.
- The UK pharmaceutical sector added £28.5bn to the economy and employed over 50,000 people in 2025.
- Section 232 and Section 301 tariffs will not be imposed on medical technology exports for at least three years.
- UCB announced a £500 million investment in UK R&D and manufacturing in Surrey.