The European Union is moving closer to implementing new measures designed to strengthen domestic production of critical medicines and reduce reliance on pharmaceutical imports from China and other overseas suppliers.

According to a report by Chemistry World, the proposed Critical Medicines Act has been agreed by the European Parliament and EU member state ministers, with formal adoption expected later in 2026 following legal review. The legislation aims to encourage the manufacture of critical medicines and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) within the European Union.

The initiative reflects growing concerns over supply chain resilience and Europe's dependence on concentrated overseas production networks. Many generic medicines used across Europe are manufactured outside the region, particularly in China and India, while a significant share of pharmaceutical ingredients and precursor materials also originate from China.

The article highlights recent calls from pharmaceutical companies for greater scrutiny of imports from China, including concerns over alleged state subsidies and pricing practices that some manufacturers argue place European production at a competitive disadvantage.

The proposed legislation forms part of a broader shift in European industrial and trade policy as policymakers seek to reduce vulnerabilities in strategically important sectors. Alongside medicines, discussions are emerging around similar approaches for chemicals and other critical industries.

The European Commission has also increased the use of trade defence measures in response to concerns about low-cost imports, launching investigations and introducing anti-dumping duties in several sectors. Supporters of the legislation argue that expanding domestic production capacity could help strengthen supply security and reduce exposure to future disruptions.Explore the full analysis and industry perspectives at the original source.