Each week we highlight five things affecting the life sciences industry. Here’s the latest.
Irish pharma exports to U.S. surge amid tariff concerns
- In March 2025, Ireland’s pharmaceutical exports to the U.S. skyrocketed by 833% as companies rushed to ship products ahead of anticipated U.S. tariffs.
- According to The Wall Street Journal, this surge was driven by firms stockpiling goods to mitigate the impact of impending trade barriers.
India’s medtech industry advocates for free trade agreement advisory board
- India’s medical technology sector is urging the establishment of a joint government-industry advisory board to address non-tariff barriers in upcoming free trade agreements.
- Per Medical Buyer, the proposed board aims to tackle regulatory hurdles and prevent market dumping as India negotiates trade deals with the U.S., European Union and U.K.
Pharma industry pushes back on proposed drug pricing plan
- President Trump’s proposed executive order aims to tie U.S. Medicare drug prices to the lowest prices paid by other countries, invoking a “most favored nation” policy.
- According to ABC News, some in the pharmaceutical industry indicated the plan could hinder innovation and reduce investment in U.S. drug development.
New North Carolina drug facility to produce obesity treatments
- Genentech will invest over $700 million in a new 700,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Holly Springs, N.C., creating more than 400 high-wage jobs and 1,500 construction roles.
- According to Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News, the plant will support the production of next-generation obesity treatments and marks Genentech’s first East Coast manufacturing site.
Funding trends send mixed messages to women’s health startups
- Venture funding for women’s health hit a record high in 2024 but female-led startups still face underinvestment, with many investors hesitant to back innovations beyond reproductive care, according to BioPharma Dive.
- With potential upcoming cuts to grants focused on women’s health, there are concerns that these restrictions will affect women’s health care initiatives.
For more insights in life sciences, check out RSM’s industry outlook.
