Eli Lilly plans $27bn in new plants as Trump threatens pharma tariffs
Al JazeeraFEB 18
Eli Lilly Plans $27B US Manufacturing Expansion
Above: The Eli Lilly and Company logo Image copyright: Jakub Porzycki/Contributor/NurPhoto via Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
This is the type of result Trump was hoping for with his tariff threats. Under Trump, the US can now rebuild its domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. Jobs are coming back to the US, and national security has been increased thanks to the new administration's policies.
Democratic narrative
The timing and location of the announcement suggest this is primarily a political move to curry favor with the administration and avoid potential tariffs. In addition to announcing this expansion, Eli Lilly's Chief Executive Officer advocated for extending Trump's controversial tax cuts.