On Mar. 26, 2025, the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) released results from a membership survey that underscores the significant, global integration of the biomedical supply chain.

According to the findings, nearly 90% of U.S. biotech companies rely on imported components for at least half of their FDA-approved products — making the supply of medicines for US patients and families especially vulnerable to proposed tariffs on the European Union, China, and Canada.

According to the survey, tariffs will:

• Reduce Access to Affordable Medicines: A staggering 94% of biotech firms anticipate surging manufacturing costs if tariffs are placed on imports from the European Union.
• Stall Medical Innovation: Proposed tariffs on the EU would force 50% of companies to scramble for new research and manufacturing partners. Half of those surveyed say they would have to rework or potentially delay regulatory filings, jeopardizing the pace of innovation.
• Create Red Tape: In the face of sudden tariffs, 80% of biotech firms report needing at least 12 months to find alternative suppliers, and a remarkable 44% would require more than two years — delays that could disrupt the pipeline of breakthrough treatments.