FDA Expands Surprise Inspections at Foreign Plants

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will expand unannounced inspections at foreign manufacturing facilities supplying food, medicines, and medical products to the U.S., ending the practice of advance notice for overseas plants. This change follows recommendations from lawmakers and the Government Accountability Office and builds on pilot programs in India and China. The policy shift comes amid broader White House initiatives to reduce reliance on foreign pharmaceutical production and boost supply chain transparency. Despite recent staff reductions at the FDA, the agency states that unannounced inspections will now be the standard for all. FDA Commissioner Marty Makary said the new measure will help expose facilities that hide violations, improving consumer protection. The move seeks to ensure foreign and domestic manufacturers face equal regulatory scrutiny.