Trump administration delays new rule that could restrict imported medicines

Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morning Pharmalittle newsletter and the afternoon Pharmalot newsletter.

The Trump administration is delaying by 90 days a federal rule that could prevent Americans from obtaining prescription drugs from licensed international pharmacies.

The move follows growing criticism that the rule, which was initially slated to go into effect on Oct. 22, could drastically reduce the flow of medicines from Canada and other countries. In recent weeks, patient advocacy groups and dozens of congressional lawmakers urged the administration to rethink its approach.

The administration is trying to crack down on illegal goods — particularly opioids — that it says enter the U.S. through low-value foreign shipments and for which shippers generally do not pay tariffs or submit data for tracking. The rule targets the de minimis exemption, which previously allowed shipments valued under $800 to pass through customs more easily.

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