Companies halt medicine imports after Aasandha reforms, president says
He noted that, prior to the reforms, certain businesses were selling medicines at profit margins of 1,000% to 2,000%.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu stated on Saturday that some companies have ceased importing medicines to the Maldives in response to reforms made to the Aasandha health insurance scheme.
During a press conference held at the President’s Office, the President presented an overview of government projects and policies. He noted that, prior to the reforms, certain businesses were selling medicines at profit margins of 1,000% to 2,000%.
The President said the decision to stop imports of certain medicines appeared to be a deliberate move by some companies in response to the new pricing controls.
“Some medicines were deliberately withheld,” he said. “There were challenges when we made the changes. STO was unable to immediately meet demand.”
He added that measures have since been taken to address the shortage of essential medicines. These include:
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All but 10 of the medicines on the essential medicines list have been procured
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These drugs will be available through all STO pharmacies
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Of the 1,207 medicines on the approved drug list, 784 are currently being stocked by STO
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The remaining medicines are in the process of being brought in
To support medicine availability, the government has relaxed certain restrictions on private sector drug pricing. From 20 April, 77 medicines will be available at a 15% discount.
“This is to support inventory management and ensure stock availability,” the President said.
