Denmark’s Strategic Response: Weight-Loss Drugs and US’s Greenland Threat

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts:

1. Donald Trump has repeatedly suggested purchasing Greenland, but Denmark has firmly rejected the idea.
2. Denmark holds significant economic leverage over the United States through various sectors.
3. Popular weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy are made by Denmark’s Novo Nordisk and widely used in the US.
4. If Denmark imposes tariffs, the cost of these drugs could increase for Americans.
5. Denmark’s strategic economic influence, including its toy and medical industries, could impact the US economy significantly.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth:

Denmark’s Response: A Strategic Economic Leverage

In recent years, US President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed interest in purchasing Greenland, an autonomous territory of Denmark. Despite his assertions, the Danish government has rejected the idea, with Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen emphasizing that Greenland is “not for sale.” While the issue could lead to trade tensions between the US and its NATO ally, Denmark holds powerful economic cards that could hurt the US if tensions escalate.

The Impact of Weight-Loss Drugs
Denmark’s pharmaceutical giant Novo Nordisk has revolutionized obesity and diabetes treatment with its drugs, Ozempic and Wegovy, which have become popular in the US. With one of the highest obesity rates globally, the United States has increasingly relied on these medications. A study from the Journal of the American Medical Association revealed a 400% increase in Ozempic prescriptions in the US from 2021 to 2023.

Trump’s Tariff Threat
If Trump decides to impose heavy tariffs on Denmark, the prices of Ozempic and Wegovy could rise significantly. Currently, Americans pay nearly $1,000 for a single package of Ozempic and $1,300 for Wegovy, making these medications costly compared to other nations. The potential for increased tariffs could further burden US consumers.

Denmark’s Economic Influence
Beyond pharmaceuticals, Denmark is also a major exporter to the US, including toys from the Lego Group, the world’s largest toy manufacturer, and hearing aids. This economic dependence gives Denmark substantial leverage over the US economy, making it difficult for the US to impose effective retaliation without facing consequences.

Denmark’s Strategic Position
Even though the US could try to counter Denmark’s tariffs, the country remains in a strong position to continue impacting the US market. With crucial exports like semaglutide, which is essential for Ozempic and Wegovy, and other industries such as toys and medical supplies, Denmark can maintain pressure on the US economy in various ways.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember:

• Denmark holds significant leverage over the US, particularly through the weight-loss drug market.
• The increasing cost of Ozempic and Wegovy could affect millions of Americans.
• Denmark’s strategic position in pharmaceuticals, toys, and medical supplies strengthens its economic influence.
• Trump’s tariff threats could lead to a trade war, but Denmark has the upper hand.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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