Bangladesh, Sept. 26 -- US President Donald Trump has reignited his combative trade agenda with the announcement of a sweeping 100% tariff on imports of branded pharmaceuticals. The measure, set to take effect in October, marks a dramatic escalation in his efforts to force multinational drug manufacturers to relocate production facilities to the United States. While the White House portrays the move as a bid to strengthen domestic industry and reduce prescription drug prices for Americans, critics argue it will raise healthcare costs, destabilize global supply chains, and intensify transatlantic trade frictions.

Trump has long accused Americas trading partners-especially the European Union-of exploiting the US market through unfair prici...