AD supports government stance on medicine imports

AD said government should resort to this measure unless medicine traders cut prices to reflect the true cost of medicine. Michael Briguglio, AD Chairperson, said: "AD has been speaking up for affordable medicines for quite some time. Should traders keep persisting in profit-maximising strategies to the detriment of patients, AD is in favour direct government importation of essential medicinal products, without restricting private businesses from also importing them."

Briguglio said the government will be competing with other local companies, possibly benefiting from economies of scale, which will affect prices of products imported. "The government can also distribute such medicines to pharmacies for them to sell at a cheaper price than those prevailing now. Of course, this should not free the government of its responsibilities regarding the distribution of free medicines in the public health sector to those patients eligible for them."

Richard Schranz, AD spokesperson for consumer rights added: "The prices of medicines in Malta are among the highest in Europe. Statistics tabled in Parliament last year show that, on average, Maltese consumers pay about 40% more for imported medicinal products than anywhere else in Europe. It is therefore high time that Government takes action to ensure that patients get a fair deal in the price of medicines."