Millions of Americans who buy cheap drugs from Canada could soon lose access when a customs rule goes into effect later this month, a change that has sparked opposition from Democrats and some Republicans, with the cost of living a top issue for voters ahead of midterm elections. The rule applies to a swath of goods beyond drugs and is intended to collect tariffs and prevent illegal drugs from coming into the US, per the AP. It comes as US President Trump has made lowering drug prices a top target in addressing soaring healthcare costs, with critics saying the rule will hurt patients seeking affordable medicine.
Roughly 2.3 million Americans buy their drugs abroad, per a 2020 study. "The issue is a matter of life and death for me," said Susan Hooper, 75, of Toledo, Ohio, who takes two daily meds not available in the US, purchased via a Canadian pharmacy. The US Customs and Border Protection rule targets the de minimis exemption, which previously allowed shipments valued under $800 to pass through customs more easily. As of Oct. 22, that exemption will be indefinitely suspended, and medications mailed from outside the US will require additional data and a bond guarantee.
The rule puts added fees and registration requirements on low-value shipments that previously entered the US duty-free—on everything from textiles to toys—but the people who could see the most significant impacts are those who buy their cheap drugs from across the border. And while the rule doesn't specifically target Canadian drugs—it applies to international mail generally—the practical consequence could be delays, refusals, or substantially more difficulty getting their medications delivered. The Trump administration could drop the rule, alter it, or decide not to enforce it.
Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have demanded answers on how the administration will protect access to affordable care for people who get their drugs from over the border. Patients, meanwhile, say tariffs have already raised their prices. Hooper, who has serious drug allergies, said her medications have already increased in price since the Trump administration imposed additional tariffs on Canada in August: She says theophylline, a medication that relaxes her airways and is bought in Canada, used to cost $85 with shipping; it now costs $141 due to tariffs. And her Foradil bronchodilator for asthma, which used to cost $151, now costs $273. Hooper said she'll find a way to manage through the change, but until then, she's been in a rush to stockpile. More here.
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