Are US pharma tariffs a risk for Sun Pharma?

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Are US pharma tariffs a risk for Sun Pharma?

Synopsis

The US's new 100% tariff on patented drugs raises concerns for Sun Pharma. However, experts suggest the financial impact may be limited, as many Indian firms primarily deal in generics. Discover how this policy could affect the pharmaceutical landscape and the strategies Sun Pharma might employ.

Key Takeaways

  • The US is imposing a 100% tariff on patented drugs.
  • Sun Pharma may experience limited financial impact.
  • The majority of Indian exports are in generics.
  • Sun Pharma relies on international manufacturing partners.
  • Experts believe the tariff could harm the US more than India.

New Delhi, Sep 26 (NationPress) The recent announcement by the United States to enforce a 100% tariff on imports of patented medications starting October 1 has sparked worries for Sun Pharma, according to a report released on Friday.

HSBC Global Investment Research's findings suggest that while this action represents a significant headline risk, the overall financial repercussions for the Indian pharmaceutical giant are expected to be minimal.

This new policy by the US targets only patented or branded medicines, leaving out generic drugs, which constitute the majority of Indian pharmaceutical exports.

As a result, most Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers are unlikely to be impacted. However, Sun Pharma, which derives approximately 17% of its revenue from patented products in the US, may experience pressure on earnings if it fails to adjust its supply chain.

HSBC projects that 8–10% of Sun Pharma's earnings per share for FY26–FY27 could face downside risk in the worst-case scenario.

The company currently depends on international contract manufacturing partners for its patented products, sourcing critical components from South Korea and Europe.

Crisil Ratings also indicated that the impact of these tariffs on the Indian pharmaceutical sector would remain limited, as exports to the US are predominantly generics.

Anuj Sethi, Senior Director at Crisil Ratings, noted that many domestic companies have a minimal share of patented drugs in their portfolios, and the cost burden of tariffs is likely to be transferred to customers in most instances.

He further emphasized that robust balance sheets and existing manufacturing facilities in the US bolster the sector’s resilience.

Moreover, experts concurred that the 100% tariff on pharmaceuticals, enforced by US President Donald Trump, is more likely to be detrimental to the US than to India.

The 100% tariff, effective from October 1, specifically targets the importation of branded and patented pharmaceutical drugs while exempting generic medicines.

Point of View

I believe it's crucial to recognize the broader implications of the US's tariff on patented drugs. While it poses some risks for Sun Pharma, the overall stability of the Indian pharmaceutical sector remains intact, driven by a strong base in generics and resilient manufacturing capabilities.
NationPress
26/09/2025

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new tariff imposed by the US?
The US has announced a 100% tariff on imported patented drugs, effective October 1.
How will this impact Sun Pharma?
While Sun Pharma may feel some financial strain, especially from its patented products, the overall impact is expected to be limited.
Are generic drugs affected by this tariff?
No, the new US policy specifically excludes generic drugs, which are the majority of Indian pharmaceutical exports.
What percentage of Sun Pharma's revenue comes from patented drugs?
Approximately 17% of Sun Pharma's revenue is derived from patented products in the US.
What are the potential earnings risks for Sun Pharma?
HSBC estimates that 8-10% of Sun Pharma's earnings per share for FY26-FY27 may face downside risk if adjustments are not made.
Nation Press