New federal rules expected to drive up prices for Canadian drug imports

Millions of Americans who buy cheap drugs from Canada could soon lose access when a customs rule goes into effect later this month (Source: “The cost of drugs from Canada is set to soar for millions of Americans because of a federal rule,” Associated Press, Oct. 8).
 
The rule applies to a swath of goods beyond drugs and is intended to collect tariffs and prevent illegal drugs from coming into the U.S.
 
“The issue is a matter of life and death for me,” said Susan Hooper, a 75-year-old Toledo resident who has been on oxygen for 14 years and takes two daily medications purchased through a Canadian pharmacy that are not available in the U.S.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection rule targets the de minimis exemption, which previously allowed shipments valued under $800 to pass through customs more easily. As of Oct. 22, that exemption will be indefinitely suspended, and medications mailed from outside the U.S. will require additional data and a bond guarantee.
 
Many medications have already increased in price since customs rules went into effect in August 2025. However, the Oct. 22 compliance date includes importation rules that could eliminate the ability to import personal prescriptions.