The spread of the coronavirus has placed severe pressure on the world’s health care system. It also has shown worldwide dependence on China for medical supplies and drugs. China holds an important position in the world market for active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), the substances that make up the drugs people use. China also is a top producer of supplies such as thermometers, medical face coverings and other equipment. The outbreak of the coronavirus in Wuhan, China, in December worried industry experts. They knew that reduced production could lead to severe medical shortages around the world. In the United States, President Donald Trump has called for the return of supply chains from outside the country. And American lawmakers appear to be willing to take some action. Anna Ashton is senior director of government affairs with the US-China Business Council. She said, “We are seeing at least 10 bills that focus on ensuring the security of pharmaceutical supply chains.”