The head of Ipsophene, a French company that produces the active ingredient in paracetamol, has criticized the French government's plans to reduce the cost of medicines and has proposed an environmental tax on Chinese pharmaceuticals. Jean Boher, president of Ipsophene, argued that producing the active ingredient in France has a much lower environmental impact compared to production in China and other countries. He suggested that an environmental tax on Chinese medicines would benefit French manufacturers, as over 80% of drug active ingredients are currently made in China. Boher warned that if China decided to restrict its exports to Europe, it could lead to a "total catastrophe" for the region's drug supply. The French government is aiming to save over 3 billion euros annually on medicines, especially older drugs, to support the development of new treatments. While some medicines have had their coverage reduced, paracetamol is not affected, as it is currently reimbursed at 65%. However, the government is considering a 13% price cut for paracetamol, reducing its cost to 66 cents per euro by January 1, 2027. When including the costs of wholesalers and pharmacies, this would bring the public price of a box of paracetamol to about 2.18 euros. Boher criticized this plan, saying the government is "moving in the wrong direction" by promoting the return of drug production to France while also reducing the prices of the products that will be made locally. Ipsophene is seeking 25 million euros in funding and plans to start production in Toulouse by 2028, with a full launch by the end of the year. The plant is expected to produce 4,000 tons of active ingredients annually, meeting 8% of Europe's needs. This would give laboratories more reliable sources of supply, Boher explained. Ipsophene has received support from the France 2030 initiative, which aims to bring back the production of essential medicines to France. Similar efforts are underway at Seqens in Isère, which will produce 15,000 tons of active ingredients annually. Ipsophene has partnered with Opella and UPSA, two pharmaceutical companies that will manufacture popular painkillers such as Doliprane, Daffalgan, and Efferalgan in France. These partnerships are part of a broader effort to reduce reliance on foreign production and ensure a more stable supply of essential medicines within Europe.