As the Union Budget 2026 approaches, the pharmaceutical industry is seeking policy measures focused on customs duty rationalisation, increased R&D support, and higher spending on preventive healthcare, as outlined in industry expectations ahead of the budget.

One of the key demands is the reduction of import duties on active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), key raw materials and medical devices, which continue to add to manufacturing costs. Duty cuts are being sought to improve cost competitiveness, strengthen domestic manufacturing and ensure uninterrupted supply of essential medicines.

The industry is also calling for enhanced tax incentives and financial support for research and development, particularly for complex generics, biologics, biosimilars and innovative products. Stronger R&D incentives are expected to help companies move up the value chain and expand their presence in regulated markets.

In addition, the sector is looking for increased government allocation for preventive healthcare, including early screening and disease prevention programmes. Greater emphasis on prevention is seen as a way to reduce long-term treatment costs and ease pressure on healthcare systems.

Pharma companies are also seeking continued investment in healthcare infrastructure and digital health systems, which are essential for expanding access to care, improving service delivery and enabling technology-led healthcare models.

Overall, industry expectations from Budget 2026 are centred on cost relief, innovation support and healthcare system strengthening, aimed at sustaining growth and improving access to quality healthcare.

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