US Delays Customs Rule That Could Halt Canadians' Cheap Prescription Drug Shipments
A U.S. customs regulation requiring detailed coding and tariffs on imported prescription medicines was postponed from Oct. 22 to Jan. 20, averting an immediate shutdown of low-cost Canadian drug shipments.
Customs and Border Protection and the FDA planned a new requirement that every imported prescription package carry coded information, enabling tariff collection and detection of illicit drugs. Scheduled to start on Oct. 22, the rule would have imposed complex documentation and fees on even small orders, threatening the flow of affordable Canadian medicines to U.S. patients. Following a surge of letters from patients, advocacy groups and bipartisan congressional opposition, the agencies announced a three-month postponement to Jan. 20.
Industry leaders warned of potential shortages for drugs such as Eliquis and Jardiance, while officials said the delay is meant to avoid disruptions to international postal shipments. The episode revives debate over Trump-era drug-importation promises and the upcoming midterm elections.
Why it matters
The rule could cut off a low-cost drug source for millions of Americans, affecting health and household budgets.
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