European Business Lobby Urges China for Transparent Drug Procurement

The European Union Chamber of Commerce in China has urged the country to ensure product safety and transparency in its centralised drug procurement programme. Concerns have been raised over the lack of transparency in a recent investigation into the quality of off-patent medicines included in the programme.

The European Union Chamber of Commerce in China has called on Chinese authorities to prioritize product safety in their centralized drug procurement programme. The business lobby group expressed concern that the current focus on low prices could compromise the quality of medicines.

The Chamber has also questioned the transparency of a recent investigation conducted by China's National Healthcare Security Administration into the quality of off-patent medicines. The probe, launched after allegations of inefficacy in cheaper generic drugs, was deemed 'unscientific' by the Chamber due to an inadequate explanation of its findings.

Amidst these concerns, the Chinese government has indicated plans to enhance oversight in the procurement scheme, aiming to balance cost pressures with maintaining consumer confidence in medication efficacy.

(With inputs from agencies.)