Supply Chain

Procuring lifesaving drugs is a daunting challenge in many low- and middle-income countries. Essential treatments are often neither available nor affordable in these nations, even decades after the drugs entered the market.

The association says about 16% of medications used in Canada come from the U.S.

Even though Canada isn't the biggest supplier of drugs to the U.S., tariffs would have massive impact, affecting international supply chains.

More than 200 expiring contracts with U.S. suppliers are also being reviewed.

Speakers included McKesson's Anthony Leong, Health Minister Kamal Khera and CPhA's Joelle Walker.

Loblaw is also adding maple leaf symbols to products that were prepared in Canada with domestic and/or imported ingredients, said Thomas.

With so many stakeholders involved in getting a drug from its component chemicals to the pill in the patient's hand, the report from the CGPA and CAPDM stresses the need for harmonized strategy.

If the U.S. goes ahead with its tariffs, we can expect tariffs on drugs and Canada to retaliate with similar measures, warns pharmacy industry expert Bertrand Bolduc.