UK pharma leaders warn industry levy is driving investment away

20 March 2025

Pharmaceutical leaders are warning that the UK is becoming an unattractive destination for investment due to high and unpredictable levies on medicine sales.

The industry is calling on the government to reform the Voluntary Scheme for Branded Medicines, Pricing, Access and Growth (VPAG) to restore the country's global competitiveness The VPAG requires companies to return a significant portion of their revenues from branded medicines to the National Health Service (NHS), with rates rising sharply in 2025.

The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) has urged ministers to collaborate with the sector, arguing that the current system is undermining the government’s goal of making life sciences a pillar of the UK’s industrial strategy.

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