Fresenius Reports Strong Financial Results Amid Tariff Concerns

Fresenius, the healthcare and medical technology corporation, has reported robust financial performance while simultaneously engaging in discussions with the U.S. government to mitigate potential pharmaceutical tariffs. The company's subsidiaries, Helios and Kabi, have shown significant growth in the first quarter, leading CEO Michael Sen to express optimism about achieving annual targets despite the looming threat of tariffs under President Donald Trump.

The U.S. government has currently excluded pharmaceutical imports from its extensive tariff package, although a review is underway. Sen stated that the company is in dialogue with local authorities, arguing that Fresenius contributes essential and affordable generics to the American healthcare system, with the majority of its products manufactured domestically. This is particularly relevant as the U.S. faces challenges with pharmaceutical supply shortages.

Sen emphasized the importance of the U.S. market for Fresenius, noting that the company generates over 10% of its revenue through its generics branch, Kabi. Notably, around 70% of the medications sold in the U.S. are produced locally, suggesting that Fresenius may be less vulnerable to tariffs compared to its competitors who rely on international manufacturing from countries like India and China.

In the first quarter, Fresenius saw an unexpected surge in performance. The adjusted revenue increased by 7% compared to the same period last year, reaching EUR5.63 billion. The adjusted earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) grew by 4% to EUR654 million, supported by a cost-saving program and solid performance in Kabi's core business, which includes pharmaceuticals, clinical nutrition, and medical technology.

The overall profit for the corporation rose by 12% to EUR416 million, excluding its stake in the dialysis specialist Fresenius Medical Care.

Fresenius aims to increase its revenue by 4% to 6% in 2025, factoring in known risks such as potential adverse tariffs, but only to the extent that these risks can be assessed at this time.