January 2, 2026, Toronto - Canada’s pharmaceutical manufacturers play a critical role in the country’s health security and economic resilience. The members of the Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance supply more than one third of all prescriptions dispensed in Canada, support more than 33,000 skilled jobs, and exported over 11 billion dollars in medicines to the United States in 2024. However, growing protectionism, supply chain pressure, and competitive measures abroad mean Canada must take deliberate action if it wants to retain and expand this domestic capability. Through recent submissions to the federal government , CPMEA has outlined the policy direction needed to secure Canada’s pharmaceutical advantage. Supporting Domestic Production Through Procurement Canada’s public drug plans spend more than $18 billion dollars each year, yet there is currently no preference for medicines made in Canada. This means that even when Canadian companies can supply high quality products, they must compete with imported medicines without the benefit of a stable home market. A “Canada First” procurement approach would provide a reliable foundation for domestic investment, reinforce supply chain stability, protect high value industry jobs, and strengthen national resilience. The federal government must direct the Public Service Health Care Plan, Veterans Affairs, military drug procurement, and the National Pharmacare program to support domestic sourcing. Making Canada Competitive for Pharmaceutical Investment Other jurisdictions, including the United States and European Union, have introduced tax and industrial incentives to encourage reshoring of pharmaceutical manufacturing. Canada now risks losing industrial activity if similar measures are not available here. CPMEA recommends modernizing fiscal policies so that companies investing in production in Canada are not disadvantaged compared to competitors in other countries. This includes support for tax credits for technology upgrades, facility expansions, and product transfers, as well as improvements to research and development incentives for generics and biosimilars. Such measures would encourage continued investment in Canadian infrastructure, innovation, and workforce development.   Faster Approval Processes for Canadian-Made Medicines Regulatory timelines play an important role in both patient access and industrial strategy. The Minister of Health has acknowledged the need to modernize the drug approval process for generics. To support this shift, CPMEA recommends increased resources for Health Canada to consistently meet its 180-day approval target and the establishment of a priority review pathway for submissions from Canadian manufacturers. Faster and more predictable timelines would better align the regulatory system with the government’s industrial and economic policy objectives. Protecting Access to the United States Through CUSMA The United States remains Canada’s most important export market. Recent American policy developments, including the ongoing Section 232 investigation into pharmaceuticals and new domestic procurement preferences, pose potential risks to Canadian exporters. As CUSMA undergoes formal review, CPMEA is urging Canadian negotiators to ensure continued access to the United States market, protect Canadian manufacturers from new tariffs or quota barriers, and secure reciprocal treatment in areas such as government procurement and regulatory oversight. Canadian-made generics and contract manufactured medicines support American health security, and this contribution should be recognized through clear and enforceable trade provisions. Medicine Production as a National Security Priority Canada is highly dependent on imported medicines and active ingredients. In a major global disruption, this could affect the country’s ability to maintain continuity in care, public health, and national defense systems. Other countries have already recognized domestic drug manufacturing as a core component of national security preparedness. Canada should adopt similar measures by treating pharmaceutical production as strategic capacity, supporting domestic stockpiles, and ensuring ongoing access to essential medicines within Canadian borders. A Path Forward Canada has the talent, facilities, and expertise to be a global leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing. By updating procurement practices, improving tax competitiveness, accelerating regulatory processes, strengthening trade protections, and recognizing medicine production as a national asset, the country can build a more secure and self-reliant pharmaceutical system. The path is clear, and the economic and health benefits are significant. Now is the time to take action to secure Canada’s pharmaceutical future. The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.   Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca .

December 2, 2025, Toronto - Every day, millions of prescriptions are filled across Canada, and the majority of them are for generic medicines. These treatments are not secondary options but high-quality, rigorously regulated equivalents to their brand-name counterparts. In fact, Canada’s regulatory standards for generics are among the most stringent in the world, requiring evidence of identical quality, safety, and efficacy before approval. This ensures that when Canadians choose generics, they are choosing medicines that meet the same standards trusted internationally. How Canada Compares Internationally Generics also play a much greater role in Canada’s healthcare system than in many other countries. Here at home, nearly three out of every four prescriptions dispensed are for generics ¹ . This level of uptake outpaces many comparable countries and demonstrates the confidence both patients and healthcare providers place in these medicines. Yet even with this high usage, Canada’s overall drug spending remains heavily weighted toward brand-name products, meaning there is still untapped potential for generics to further strengthen the system. Domestic Manufacturing Matters Domestic manufacturers add another critical dimension. By producing, packaging, and distributing medicines here in Canada, the generic and contract manufacturing sector reduces reliance on fragile international supply chains. This local capacity is essential for protecting healthcare security, particularly as global trade faces ongoing disruptions. The sector also sustains thousands of well-paying jobs and contributes significantly to the Canadian economy, creating a long-term foundation for growth and resilience.   Strengthening Canada’s Healthcare Future Generics also contribute directly to the sustainability of the healthcare system. In 2023 alone, generics were estimated to save Canadians more than $30 billion², a figure that supports government budgets, employer health plans, and household finances. These savings allow scarce healthcare resources to be reinvested into new services, treatments, and infrastructure, all while ensuring that patients continue to receive effective therapies.   Canada’s healthcare future depends on recognizing and supporting the role of generics and contract manufacturers. Policies that encourage greater use of generics, while safeguarding and expanding domestic production capacity, will help secure access, reduce pressure on healthcare budgets, and strengthen the resilience of our system. Generics are not simply alternatives to brand-name medicines. They are a cornerstone of patient care, a driver of economic contribution, and a critical safeguard for Canada’s healthcare security. The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.   Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca . ¹   https://canadiangenerics.ca/impact/supporting-sustainable-healthcare/ ² https://canadiangenerics.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/CGPA_International-Pricing-and-Canadas-Generic-Prescription-Medicines-2023.pdf

August 6, 2025, Toronto - The growing threats facing Canada’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector aren’t just economic - they’re national security concerns. From escalating trade tensions to an over-reliance on global supply chains, the ability to make medicines in Canada is under real and immediate threat. And if we lose that capacity, the consequences could be dire. Lessons from Recent Supply Chain Failures During the COVID-19 pandemic, Canadians faced shortages of basic medications like painkillers, antibiotics, and children’s fever reducers. These weren’t luxury items - they were essential treatments, and we couldn’t get them because we were too dependent on foreign suppliers. Production bottlenecks in other countries left our shelves bare. And now, we’re at risk of repeating history. Escalating Trade Pressures Demand Urgent Attention The recent threat of a 200% U.S. tariff on Canadian pharmaceuticals ¹ is only the latest signal that Canada must do more to protect and expand domestic production. Steel, aluminum, and auto manufacturing have already been targeted by U.S. Section 232 tariffs in the name of national security. Pharmaceuticals could be next. If Canada loses access to key export markets or becomes subject to new trade barriers, our manufacturers may not remain economically viable.   Security Means Self-Sufficiency Medicines are a foundational part of a functioning healthcare system and of national readiness. Whether the next crisis is a pandemic, a climate disaster, or geopolitical conflict, Canada must be able to produce and distribute the drugs we need within our own borders. That includes critical medicines for chronic conditions, pain management, emergency care, and more.   Pharmaceutical manufacturing is not just an economic asset - it is a pillar of public health resilience. Policy Support Is Essential to Preserve the Sector Canada’s pharmaceutical manufacturers are already facing rising costs, global competition, and policy uncertainty. Without strategic support - including stable procurement frameworks, infrastructure investment, and a commitment to domestic resilience - companies will be forced to scale back or shutter operations entirely. When that happens, it’s not just jobs that disappear - it’s our safety net.   Time for Coordinated Government Action The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) is calling on government leaders and policymakers to treat pharmaceutical production as a national health and security priority. We must create the conditions for growth and act decisively before it’s too late.   Because if Canada can’t make its own medicine, we can’t truly protect our people.   The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.   Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca . ¹   https://www.ctvnews.ca/world/trumps-tariffs/article/trump-says-pharmaceutical-tariffs-could-reach-200/

July 10, 2025, Toronto - In Canada, pharmaceutical manufacturing is often discussed in the context of trade, tariffs, and economic development. But there is another critical lens through which to view this sector: public health. The ability to produce essential medicines domestically isn't just a strategic advantage or an economic opportunity - it is a public health imperative. A Vulnerable Supply Chain The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the fragility of global medical supply chains. Canadians experienced shortages of everything from painkillers to antibiotics, a result of our heavy reliance on foreign manufacturing hubs. When international borders close or supply chains are disrupted, our access to vital medications can be severely compromised.   Many of the medicines Canadians use every day are manufactured outside our borders, including active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and finished dosage forms. This dependence creates significant risk, especially for vulnerable populations, rural communities, and those managing chronic health conditions. Public Health and Domestic Production Go Hand in Hand A resilient healthcare system requires a reliable, consistent supply of medications. Local pharmaceutical manufacturers help guarantee that supply. When medicines are made in Canada, we reduce the risks of international disruption, respond faster to shortages, and maintain higher oversight and regulatory control.   Domestic production also enables better emergency preparedness. In times of crisis, having the capacity to scale up production locally can mean the difference between timely care and critical shortages. Whether it’s a pandemic, natural disaster, or geopolitical instability, domestic manufacturing strengthens our national readiness.   Equity and Access A robust Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturing sector can also improve access and equity. Medications produced locally are more likely to be distributed efficiently across regions, including remote and underserved areas. With a stable domestic supply, pharmacies and healthcare providers are less likely to experience backorders or delays that disproportionately affect rural and Indigenous communities.   A Policy Priority The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) advocates for a future where Canada can meet more of its own pharmaceutical needs. Supporting domestic manufacturers is not only good for the economy, it’s essential for protecting the health of Canadians.   We urge policymakers to treat pharmaceutical manufacturing as a public health priority. That includes investing in infrastructure, supporting the skilled workforce behind our manufacturing capabilities, and ensuring fair, stable market conditions for Canadian producers.   By reframing pharmaceutical manufacturing as a public health issue, we can align industry strategy with healthcare outcomes. Because manufacturing medicines in Canada doesn’t just make economic sense - it saves lives.   Learn more about how CPMEA is advocating for a secure and resilient Canadian drug supply at www.cpmea.ca . The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.   Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca .

June 10, 2025, Toronto - Canada is known for its wealth of natural resources—forests, minerals, energy. But as we shape the future of our economy, there is one resource more critical than ever: access to life-saving medicines. In a world facing increasing global health threats, disrupted supply chains, and shifting geopolitical alliances, the ability to produce medicines domestically is not just an economic advantage—it’s a national imperative. Reliable access to essential medications restores health, cures disease, and reduces suffering for millions of Canadians every year. Turning Tariff Threats into Opportunity The recent tariff threatened by the United States served as a sharp reminder of our dependency on external pharmaceutical supply chains. Rather than accept vulnerability, Canada has the chance to turn this moment into an inflection point—one where we recommit to growing domestic production and reducing reliance on imports. By investing in pharmaceutical manufacturing at home, we can not only secure long-term supply but also generate significant economic returns through job creation, infrastructure development, and regional economic growth. Rising to the Moment: Canada’s Manufacturing Potential Following the recent federal election, Canadians placed their trust in a vision to Build Canada Strong—a future defined by national resilience and strategic independence. Canada’s domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing industry stands ready to meet this call. Across the country, manufacturers are prepared to expand production capacity, adopt advanced technologies that boost productivity, strengthen and diversify supply chains, and invest in training programs to cultivate a highly skilled workforce. This movement toward reshoring and onshoring is about more than capacity—it’s about long-term security, self-sufficiency, and prosperity. Policy Levers to Drive Change We already possess many of the tools needed to unlock growth in this sector. Well-designed government policies can play a catalytic role in attracting investment and ensuring sustainable demand for Canadian-made medicines. Encouraging investment through predictable procurement, providing targeted incentives for technological upgrades, supporting workforce training, and streamlining regulatory processes are all practical ways to build momentum. These actions not only support the industry but also align with broader national goals of economic resilience and health system security. A Made-in-Canada Commitment Strengthening Canada’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector benefits more than the industry—it supports national health outcomes, economic diversification, and regional development. It ensures that Canadians have access to medicines produced by Canadian hands, in Canadian facilities, for Canadian needs. The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) is committed to working collaboratively with the federal government and industry partners to shape a resilient pharmaceutical landscape. With the right focus and shared commitment, we can build a sustainable production economy—one that helps secure our future and delivers on the promise to Build Canada Strong. The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.   Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca .

May 22, 2025, Toronto - The pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Canada is more than a cornerstone of our healthcare system—it is a critical driver of national economic growth, resilience, and security.  As Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturers continue to provide high-quality, essential medicines to patients at home and abroad, their contributions to the broader economy are often underestimated. The industry’s impact extends well beyond the lab or production floor, shaping employment, innovation, and competitiveness across Canada. Direct Economic Contributions Pharmaceutical manufacturing in Canada directly supports thousands of high-quality jobs—from scientists and engineers to production workers, regulatory experts, and logistics professionals. These are not only well-paying positions but also careers that contribute to the development and delivery of life-saving treatments for Canadians. Canadian drug manufacturers consistently invest in the discovery and improvement of technologies. This investment helps improve productivity and unlock future economic growth. Manufacturing itself remains a vital part of Canada’s economic infrastructure. Pharmaceutical production facilities support regional economies across the country and contribute directly to national GDP. With every medicine produced locally, Canada reduces its reliance on foreign supply chains and strengthens its domestic capability. Indirect and Spillover Effects The economic impact of pharmaceutical manufacturing also extends through a wide network of suppliers, contractors, and service providers. These include clinical research laboratories,  specialized packaging companies, raw material producers, software developers, transportation firms, and many others that benefit from the strength and consistency of the industry. The wages earned in the sector flow back into the economy through consumer spending, supporting local businesses and services. In addition, innovations in medicine often lead to improved health outcomes, which in turn reduce overall healthcare costs and support a more productive workforce. Canada’s pharmaceutical manufacturing industry is also a significant contributor to exports, bolstering trade and enhancing Canada’s global competitiveness. Canadian-made medicines are trusted around the world, and international demand for these products continues to grow—particularly when reliability, quality, and compliance matter most. A National Asset for Economic Resilience Building and maintaining a robust domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing sector is not only a health imperative—it is a national security priority.  As global disruptions, supply chain pressures, and public health challenges continue to test resilience, Canada’s ability to produce its own medicines remains a vital national asset. The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) continues to advocate for policies that support a vibrant domestic sector—one that creates jobs, drives innovation, and strengthens our economy while ensuring access to essential treatments made right here at home. To learn more about how Canada’s pharmaceutical manufacturers are contributing to a stronger and healthier future, visit www.cpmea.ca . The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.   Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca .

PRESS RELEASE May 12, 2025, Toronto, ON – The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) congratulates Prime Minister Mark Carney and the newly elected government on their historic win. We look forward to working closely with the Prime Minister and his team to strengthen Canada’s domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity and ensure a secure, resilient, and innovative life sciences sector.   Canada’s pharmaceutical manufacturing industry plays a critical role in supporting public health, creating high-quality jobs, and contributing to national economic growth. As an industry that supplies both domestic and global markets—including over $9 billion in exports to the United States—the sector is well-positioned to support the government’s objectives of health system sustainability, economic resilience, and innovation leadership.   “We welcome the opportunity to work with Prime Minister Carney’s government to advance practical policy solutions that address ongoing challenges in our sector, including supply chain stability, investment in manufacturing capacity, and a competitive regulatory environment,” said Terry Creighton, President of CPMEA.   CPMEA is committed to ensuring that Canadians have reliable access to high-quality, locally manufactured medicines. A strong partnership between government and industry is essential to building a secure domestic supply of essential pharmaceuticals while supporting economic opportunity and innovation across the country.   We look forward to engaging with policymakers, stakeholders, and industry partners to build a future-ready pharmaceutical manufacturing sector—one that delivers health and economic benefits for generations to come.   About CPMEA The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.   Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca .

April 22, 2025, Toronto - Canada is a major force in pharmaceutical manufacturing, with a robust industry that contributes significantly to both the domestic and global markets. In 2023 alone, Canada exported $9 billion worth of pharmaceuticals to the United States, highlighting the scale and importance of the industry. However, proposed tariffs on pharmaceuticals threaten to disrupt this critical sector, harming local producers, driving up drug costs, and making North America more reliant on less stable suppliers. Strengthening Canada’s Pharmaceutical Industry While Maintaining Fair Trade A strong domestic pharmaceutical industry is essential for Canada’s healthcare security. By increasing its capacity to manufacture essential medicines, Canada can ensure a stable and secure supply without excessive dependence on any single country. However, self-sufficiency does not mean isolation. Maintaining open, tariff-free trade with the U.S. is equally vital to ensuring North America’s pharmaceutical resilience. A well-balanced approach—one that both supports Canadian manufacturers and fosters fair trade—will protect patients, lower costs, and strengthen supply chains across the region. Building Drug Supply Sovereignty The majority of medicines manufactured in Canada are generics and contract-manufactured drugs—the everyday medications found in household medicine cabinets across the country. By strengthening domestic manufacturing, Canada can reduce its dependence on foreign suppliers, particularly those in less stable markets, and ensure its own long-term healthcare security. The Importance of Tariff-Free Trade For decades, Canada and the U.S. have maintained a reciprocal, tariff-free pharmaceutical trade agreement, fostering innovation, competitiveness, and patient access to essential treatments. This agreement, formalized through the WTO Zero for Zero Pharmaceutical Agreement in 1994, has enabled both nations to build a strong, integrated supply chain that ensures the availability of medicines without unnecessary financial barriers. To our knowledge, there has never been a time when tariffs were levied on imported medicines by either country. Even when the U.S. imposed tariffs on China in 2018, pharmaceuticals and their ingredients were exempt. This long-standing recognition that healthcare products should remain tariff-free ensures affordability and accessibility for patients. Why Imposing Tariffs Would Be Harmful Any move to introduce tariffs on pharmaceuticals would disrupt this carefully balanced system. The consequences could include: Increased Drug Costs  – Higher tariffs mean increased production costs, which would inevitably be passed on to consumers and healthcare systems. Supply Chain Disruptions  – Tariffs could lead to delays, shortages, and uncertainty in the availability of essential medicines. Increased Reliance on Adversarial Markets  – By limiting access to Canadian-made pharmaceuticals, tariffs could push the U.S. to depend more heavily on suppliers from less stable regions. Harm to Local Producers  – Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturers play a vital role in the national economy, supporting thousands of jobs and ensuring a dependable medicine supply. Tariffs could cause a domino effect, negatively impacting job creation, economic stability, and innovation within the industry. The CPMEA strongly opposes any measures that would threaten the affordability and accessibility of life-saving medications. As a leading advocate for Canada’s pharmaceutical manufacturers, we are committed to ensuring that our industry continues to grow, innovate, and provide reliable medicines to patients in Canada and around the world. Securing Canada’s Pharmaceutical Future Maintaining a strong domestic pharmaceutical industry is crucial for public health security and economic resilience. Canada must prioritize policies that support pharmaceutical self-sufficiency, allowing the country to manufacture and supply its own essential medicines without over-reliance on foreign sources. At the same time, ensuring fair and open trade with the U.S. is key to keeping medicines affordable and supply chains strong—for both countries. The CPMEA is advocating for a general exemption for pharmaceuticals from tariffs in all trade agreements. Medicines from any country, particularly high-quality FDA-approved medicines from Canadian facilities, should be traded freely and fairly. Restricting this trade only harms patients and disrupts healthcare systems. By continuing to champion free and fair trade while strengthening its own manufacturing base, Canada can further solidify its position as a global leader in pharmaceutical production. The CPMEA remains dedicated to working with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and international partners to preserve and enhance the strength of Canada’s pharmaceutical sector. To learn more about how the CPMEA is advocating for fair trade policies and a strong domestic pharmaceutical industry, visit www.cpmea.ca . The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.   Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca .

January 16, 2025, Toronto - The recent tariff announcements made by President-elect Trump have raised serious concerns regarding the imposition of 25% tariffs on all goods including medicines exported from Canada to the U.S. Canada’s  pharmaceutical manufacturing exporters rely on tariff-free access to the global market including the U.S.  The repercussions of such tariffs will create significant issues for the Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, touching on critical aspects of national security, access to vital medicines for citizens, rising costs, and security risks. National Security Considerations Medicine production is a crucial aspect of national defence, and the U.S. has identified it as a significant vulnerability. Imposing tariffs on Canadian-made medicines would disrupt the flow of critical drugs from a trusted ally, potentially leading to increased reliance on suppliers from non-allied nations. This would not only undermine U.S. national security but also pose security risks by increasing dependence on countries that may not align with U.S. interests.   Access to Critical Medicines The CPMEA represents Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturers that produce essential medicines for both domestic consumption and export, including to the U.S. According to Statistics Canada, Canadian pharmaceutical exports to the U.S. exceeded $9 billion in 2023.  Canada also imports billions of dollars worth of medicines from the U.S., and the two markets are deeply interconnected. Any disruption in this trade relationship could result in shortages of critical medicines in the U.S., affecting the health and well-being of American citizens who rely on Canadian-made pharmaceuticals.   Rising Costs and Supply Disruptions The imposition of tariffs on Canadian pharmaceutical exports would not only harm the economic interests of domestic producers but also lead to supply disruptions in the U.S. market. Drug shortages are already a global concern and cutting off a reliable and trusted source of pharmaceutical supply from Canada would exacerbate the problem, potentially leading to increased costs and challenges in accessing necessary medications.   Trade Agreements and Stability Canada and the U.S. have been parties to various trade agreements that have facilitated barrier and tariff-free trade in pharmaceutical products since 1995. However, proposed  actions by the Trump Administration raise  concerns about the future stability of these agreements. To ensure continued seamless trade in pharmaceuticals between the two countries, Canada must explore establishing a separate bilateral agreement or side agreement to mitigate any disruptions to the pharmaceutical supply chain. The potential imposition of tariffs on Canadian pharmaceutical exports to the U.S. poses significant challenges for the industry, jeopardizing national security, access to critical medicines, and economic stability. Both Canadian and U.S. authorities must engage in dialogue to address these issues and uphold the mutually beneficial trade relationship that has been established over the years. The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.   Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca .

Introduction The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Association ("CPMEA") is at the forefront of advocating for Canada's pharmaceutical manufacturers and exporters. Representing the largest manufacturers of medicines in the country, CPMEA aims to build a resilient domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing sector while emphasizing the significance of Canadian-based production in ensuring public health resilience and national security of supply. Addressing Domestic Needs The challenges faced by local producers often differ from those affecting importers, making it essential to have an organization that caters specifically to the needs of Canadian manufacturers. Unfortunately, there has been a lack of representation for these producers, resulting in their unique challenges being poorly understood by all levels of government. Recognizing the need for collaboration, CPMEA offers a platform to engage with stakeholders in finding innovative solutions that will drive a healthy future for the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector in Canada. Securing the Future The pharmaceutical manufacturing industry is a vital contributor to Canada's economy, productivity, exports, and security of access to medicines. Recent disruptions and shortages in the supply chain, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, have shed light on the vulnerability of relying heavily on external sources of supply. The overreliance on foreign and geographically concentrated sources for critical drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) poses a significant national security risk. This realization has prompted other countries to take steps in attracting and supporting local production. Likewise, policy makers in Canada are now recognizing the necessity of engaging with producers in an effort to address these concerns. Our Vision CPMEA envisions a united front, with all stakeholders working together to build a robust future for the domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. By bringing producers, policy makers, and industry experts to the table, CPMEA aims to create a collective voice that advocates for innovative policies supporting the continued growth and success of Canada's pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. Conclusion As the voice of Canada's pharmaceutical producers and exporters, the Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Association (CPMEA) plays a pivotal role in advocating for the needs of domestic producers. By addressing the unique challenges faced by Canadian manufacturers, CPMEA seeks to foster a better understanding and promote policies that ensure a strong and resilient pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. Through collaboration and engagement, CPMEA aims to strengthen Canada's position in the global pharmaceutical industry, contributing to the economy, productivity, exports, and most importantly, the health and well-being of all Canadians. Together, we can build a future where local production and access to essential medicines are not only secure but also synonymous with the Canadian identity. The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry. Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca .

Introduction As Canada's pharmaceutical manufacturers and exporters continue to play a crucial role in the country's healthcare landscape, the Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Association ("CPMEA") stands as the unified voice of this vital industry. With the largest manufacturers of medicines in Canada as members, CPMEA serves as a forum to address the unique challenges faced by domestic pharmaceutical manufacturers and to advocate for the importance of Canadian-based production in ensuring public health resilience and national security of supply. The Need for CPMEA While Canada boasts numerous local drug makers, the absence of a dedicated organization representing their needs has left policymakers with a limited understanding of the challenges confronting Canadian manufacturers. This lack of representation has hindered effective policy-making and support for the domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. The CPMEA's role becomes critical in bridging this gap to collaboratively develop innovative policies that will support the growth and sustainability of the industry. A Call to Action The pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Canada is not only a significant contributor to the economy and productivity but also a key player in ensuring the country's security of access to essential medicines. Recent disruptions in the global supply chain, exacerbated by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted Canada's vulnerability to external sources of supply. The over-reliance on foreign and geographically concentrated sources for critical drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) poses a serious national security risk. As other countries shift their focus towards supporting local production, Canada must also take proactive steps to safeguard its pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. We are increasingly recognizing the importance of addressing these vulnerabilities and ensuring a resilient supply chain for essential medicines. Looking Ahead It is evident that the status quo is no longer sustainable for Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturers. Without a collective effort to address the challenges faced by the industry, the country risks compromising its public health resilience, national security, and economic stability. The CPMEA's vision of uniting stakeholders and advocating for innovative policies is essential in shaping a future where Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturing thrives, ensuring a sustainable supply of medicines for the well-being of all Canadians. In conclusion, the time for action is now. By working together under the leadership of the CPMEA, Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturers can navigate the complex landscape of challenges, secure the future of the industry, and reinforce Canada's position as a leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing production. The road ahead may be paved with obstacles, but with collective action and strategic planning, the industry can overcome these challenges and chart a course towards a stronger and more resilient pharmaceutical manufacturing sector in Canada. The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry. Click here to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca .

The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) stands as a leading advocate for the growth and competitiveness of the Canadian pharmaceutical industry, striving to ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for the sector. Representing the largest manufacturers of medicines by volume in Canada, CPMEA's members produce innovative, generic, and biosimilar pharmaceuticals, along with non-prescription medications. The products made by the CPMEA members fill over 203 million prescriptions in Canada annually, representing 26% of all prescriptions dispensed in the country.   This underscores the critical role of the CPMEA in bolstering Canada's economy and public health resilience, highlighting the need to amplify the sector's voice to enhance Canada's position in the global pharmaceutical market.   Advocating for streamlined regulations and processes, the CPMEA seeks to enhance the industry's efficiency and global market access, ultimately driving growth and innovation within the Canadian pharmaceutical landscape.   Our unwavering commitment to excellence in pharmaceutical manufacturing and export compels us to persist in advocating for policies and agreements that not only foster the growth and innovation of the Canadian pharmaceutical industry but also safeguard Canada's sovereignty in pharmaceutical production.   Join us as we navigate the path toward a resilient, innovative, and prosperous future for the Canadian pharmaceutical landscape. The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.   Click here  to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca .