Health and Industries Minister Dr. Ramesh Pathirana has assured the public that no substandard medicines are present in the state hospital system. Addressing concerns at a media briefing on August 30, he emphasized that the government strictly regulates the import of medicines, ensuring that only high-quality drugs are used in state hospitals.
Dr. Pathirana clarified that the Ministry of Health does not engage in emergency medicine purchases and that all drugs are procured through a controlled process. He highlighted that only medicines registered with Sri Lanka are imported, and recent discussions on drug quality stem from a bilateral agreement with India.
Under the “Janaushadhi Drug Programme,” India provides high-quality medicines through state enterprises. Following a request from the Indian government, a cabinet paper was submitted to enable the import of these medicines at fair prices, pending their registration in Sri Lanka. However, no memorandum of understanding has been signed yet, and any imported drugs will require registration with the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA).
The minister acknowledged a shortage of 37 medicines in Sri Lanka over the past year, with 21 from registered manufacturers who either did not supply or charged high prices. Sixteen other medicines remain unregistered in Sri Lanka. To address this, the Secretary of Health is empowered to explore a regulated direct procurement process, though this requires further cabinet approval.
Dr. Pathirana assured that if medicines are imported under this process, it will be done transparently, with a focus on maintaining quality and adhering to regulatory standards. He emphasized that there is no intention to engage in illegal or irregular practices under his leadership.
Health Ministry Ramesh Pathirana
Last modified: August 31, 2024
