The Trump administration has postponed a federal rule by 90 days that would have restricted Americans from purchasing prescription medications from licensed international pharmacies. This decision follows significant backlash from patient advocacy groups and a large number of congressional lawmakers who warned that the rule could severely limit the supply of medicines from Canada and other countries. The regulation was originally scheduled to take effect on Oct. 22.
The administration stated that the rule is designed to combat illegal goods, specifically opioids, which officials say enter the United States through low-value foreign shipments. These shipments often bypass tariff payments and data submission requirements for tracking purposes. The proposed rule targets the de minimis exemption, a customs provision that previously allowed packages valued under $800 to clear borders with reduced scrutiny. By modifying this exemption, the government aims to increase oversight of cross-border deliveries while addressing concerns about the flow of pharmaceutical products.