Seoul: The Korea Biotechnology Industry Organization (KBIO) has formally requested that the United States exempt South Korea from the proposed tariffs on pharmaceutical imports put forward by the Donald Trump administration. The organization conveyed its stance to the U.S. Department of Commerce on Tuesday, aligning with the ongoing investigation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, which is assessing the national security implications of pharmaceutical imports.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the U.S. initiated the probe on April 1 and has been seeking public commentary from stakeholders on the matter. President Trump has indicated his intention to announce potential tariff measures on pharmaceuticals in the near future. In its submission, KBIO highlighted South Korea's role as a dependable ally in the U.S. pharmaceutical supply chain, significantly contributing to the affordability of high-cost prescription medications.

The South Korean bio trade group referenced recommendations from the U.S. National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, released last month, which underscored the crucial nature of collaboration with allied nations to ensure stability within the pharmaceutical supply chain. KBIO emphasized South Korea's ongoing contributions to the U.S. drug ecosystem, particularly in the realms of new drug development and contract manufacturing.

"Pharmaceutical products are essential for national security and patient protection, and global supply chains are highly interdependent," the KBIO stated. The organization urged that if trade measures are necessary, South Korea, as a key U.S. ally and trusted source, should be exempt from such actions.