U.S. President Donald Trump announced a new series of tariffs that will take effect on October 1, targeting pharmaceuticals, heavy trucks, and furniture imports.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump said the U.S. would impose a 100% tariff on all branded or patented pharmaceutical products, unless companies build production plants inside the United States.
Protecting Domestic Truck Manufacturing
Trump also declared a 25% tariff on all heavy trucks manufactured abroad, citing the need to protect American truck makers such as Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, and Mack Trucks. Earlier this year, his administration launched an investigation into whether foreign truck imports pose a threat to national security.
Furniture Imports Hit With Tariffs
The tariff package also extends to household goods. Imports of kitchen cabinets, bathroom furniture, and related items will face a 50% tariff, while upholstered furniture will be subject to a 30% tariff.
However, Trump did not clarify whether these new duties would apply on top of existing tariffs or if exemptions would be made for trade partners such as the European Union and Japan.
Security Probes Signal More Tariffs Ahead
Beyond the October measures, the Trump administration has opened new national security investigations into imports of robotics, industrial machinery, and medical devices.
According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, the inquiry—launched on September 2—will examine whether products ranging from wheelchairs and hospital beds to insulin injectors, pacemakers, and heart valves pose risks to U.S. national security.
The scope also covers personal protective equipment (PPE) such as surgical masks, N95 respirators, gloves, and other medical supplies.
These investigations could pave the way for additional tariffs designed to boost domestic production of goods considered vital for the country’s security and healthcare resilience.
