-
Major pharmaceutical firms, including MSD and AstraZeneca, have announced significant cuts to UK investments, citing poor government support, undervaluation of medicines, and an uncompetitive environment. These decisions threaten the UK’s ambitions to be a global life sciences hub, with job losses and stalled projects. The government promises to act, but industry concerns persist.
-
US technology companies, including OpenAI, Nvidia, and CoreWeave, plan to announce billions of dollars in UK investments during President Trump's visit. The focus is on expanding AI infrastructure and data centres amid regulatory pressures and government initiatives to support AI growth zones.
-
Major pharmaceutical firms have paused or canceled over £2bn in UK investments this year amid concerns over drug pricing policies, US pressure for price parity, and a deteriorating investment climate. Industry warnings highlight risks to future drug development and supply chains.
-
The US has announced new tariffs on heavy trucks, steel, aluminum, and various finished goods, citing national security. The move affects European and Mexican industries, with concerns over supply chains and trade relations. The tariffs take effect from October 1, 2025, amid ongoing global trade tensions.
-
An eighth measles case has been identified in Greenville, linked to ongoing outbreaks in Spartanburg. Low vaccination rates and rising exemptions are fueling community transmission, with US cases reaching a 33-year high. Public health officials emphasize vaccination to contain the spread.
-
England is set to approve cabotegravir, a two-month injectable HIV prevention shot, expanding options for those unable to take daily pills. Zimbabwe will roll out lenacapavir, a twice-yearly prophylactic, amid debates over cost and safety. Both developments mark significant advances in HIV prevention efforts.
-
The FDA has approved Lynkuet, a hormone-free pill from Bayer, to treat hot flashes and night sweats in menopausal women. It blocks two brain receptors affecting temperature regulation, potentially improving sleep and mood. The drug is expected to be available in November, offering an alternative to hormonal therapies with fewer risks.
-
The UK and US have agreed to a trade deal that maintains 0% import taxes on medicines for three years, while increasing the NHS's drug spending threshold by 25%. The deal aims to boost investment, protect jobs, and facilitate access to innovative medicines, amid ongoing industry concerns over investment and pricing practices.
-
Recent UK-US trade and pharmaceutical agreements aim to boost UK life sciences but face criticism over increased NHS drug costs and potential impacts on patient access. UK officials highlight investment gains, while critics warn of higher mortality and budget pressures.