It will be challenge to pharma industry: Wockhardt's Huzaifa Khorakiwala on impact of US tariffs

ANI April 12, 2025 230 views

Dr. Huzaifa Khorakiwala from Wockhardt has highlighted the potential challenges facing the Indian pharmaceutical industry due to potential US tariffs. The company is making significant strides in antibiotic research, with their breakthrough drug WCK-5222-ZENIC showing 97% success in clinical trials. India currently ranks third globally in pharmaceutical production and exports to approximately 200 countries. Despite potential trade tensions, the Indian pharmaceutical sector remains resilient and innovative in global healthcare.

"If tariffs come, it's not an opportunity; it is a challenge" - Dr. Huzaifa Khorakiwala
Dubai, April 12: Dr Huzaifa Khorakiwala, Executive Director of Wockhardt Limited, on Saturday said that imposition of US reciprocal tariffs, if extended on the Indian pharmaceutical products, will pose a significant challenge on the industry.

Key Points

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Wockhardt pioneering global antibiotic research with 97% successful clinical trial

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US tariffs could significantly challenge Indian pharma exports

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India ranks third globally in pharmaceutical production

"If tariffs come, it's not an opportunity; it is a challenge, and it is how you address the challenge that is the question," he said.

US President Donald Trump's reciprocal tariff announcement last week has been sending tremors globally, including here in India. However, in recent developments, Trump announced on Wednesday a 90-day pause on tariffs against all countries except China for negotiating tariffs. He has also said that the US will soon announce major tariffs on pharma products.

Going further, Khorakiwala stated that Wockhardt Limited has become the world leader in antibiotic research, with trials approved.

"Trials are approved now, and we are becoming the world leader in antibiotic research, and blockbuster product WCK-5222-ZENIC has given a 97 per cent success in the phase 3 clinical trial, and we are confident it will save 5 million lives annually due to antimicrobial resistance. It is one of the greatest breakthroughs in medicine since the discovery of penicillin by Alexander," he said.

According to the official data of the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, India's pharmaceutical industry has gained international recognition as the "Pharmacy of the World," particularly for its imperative role in supplying vaccines, essential medicines, and medical supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.

The sector has showcased its innovative capabilities and established itself as a crucial global pharmaceutical value chain member.

Ranking third globally in drug and pharmaceutical production by volume, India exports to approximately 200 countries and territories. The top five destinations for these exports are the USA, Belgium, South Africa, the UK, and Brazil.

Reader Comments

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Rahul P.
The antibiotic breakthrough sounds incredible! 97% success rate is amazing. But I'm worried about these potential tariffs - hope our government can negotiate well with the US. 🇮🇳
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Sunita K.
While the article highlights India's pharma achievements, I wish it had more details about how exactly companies plan to tackle the tariff challenge. The antibiotic research is impressive though!
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Amit D.
"Pharmacy of the World" indeed! Proud of our pharma sector's growth. The WCK-5222-ZENIC breakthrough could be game-changing for global health. Hope the US recognizes our value and keeps tariffs reasonable.
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Priya M.
Interesting read! I appreciate how Dr. Khorakiwala acknowledges the challenge rather than sugarcoating it. The 90-day pause gives some breathing room at least. Fingers crossed for positive negotiations 🤞
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Vikram S.
As someone in the industry, I think this article could have explored alternative markets more. With exports to 200 countries, maybe we should focus less on US dependence? The antibiotic research is phenomenal though!

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Wockhardt Huzaifa Khorakiwala US Tariffs Pharmaceutical Industry Antibiotic Research Trump Trade Policy
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