Shadow Minister for Trade, Investment and Tourism, Kevin Hogan, said the restructure of CSL highlights the risks facing Australia’s pharmaceutical supply chains, and reaffirms the need for the Prime Minister to meet the U.S President to address tariffs.
CSL – Australia’s largest pharmaceutical company – has announced plans to cut nearly 3,000 jobs globally, or almost 15 per cent of its total workforce.
Mr Hogan said this was another warning sign for the government of the impact of escalating global trade tensions.
“CSL is one of our great Australian companies, employing thousands and delivering life-saving medical treatments and vaccines across the globe,” Mr Hogan said.
“The company itself has cited a ‘dynamic geopolitical backdrop’ as one reason for this restructure. That is exactly why the Prime Minister must be proactive, because global pressures are directly impacting Australian businesses and workers.”
“Steel and aluminium are already subject to high U.S. tariffs; our pharmaceutical sector is under threat. It is time to act and put our case directly to the President.”
“Just last week we saw a bipartisan U.S. congressional delegation visiting Australia, who also urged a meeting between the Prime Minister and the U.S. President.”
“Australian exporters are being left exposed. We’ve had months of inaction and still no face to face between the Prime Minister and the U.S. President. Every tariff hits families and businesses across the country.”
