The Trump administration just launched a “Section 301” investigation into Germany’s pharmaceutical pricing practices. The move begins a process to address foreign free-riding by one of the world’s largest economies — and helps advance the broader goal of ensuring wealthy countries pay their fair share for global innovation.

Patients in the United States, Germany, and every other country ought to cheer this news. For decades, Germany and other developed nations have underpaid for lifesaving medicines — and obtained low prices by delaying and rationing drug access. These access restrictions have had real impacts on patients.