According to information from the State Enterprise 'Medical Procurement of Ukraine' (MPU), there are currently no companies in Ukraine that have received permission for the parallel import of medicinal products, which is why the parallel import mechanism for medicines is not operating at full capacity.
'To date, despite the existence of legislative conditions, the parallel import mechanism has not yet fully launched. In particular, at the moment there are no economic entities that have obtained permission for parallel import from the State Service of Ukraine for Medicines and Drug Control (SMLDC)'
The MPU noted that although they have not yet had to purchase medicinal products through the parallel import mechanism, they view this tool as promising. Potential advantages of parallel import include access to quality products, market competition, and a flexible supply system.
Challenges in launching the parallel import mechanism
According to the Law 'On Medicines', parallel-imported drugs cannot be sold in pharmacies but can be purchased by the MPU or hospitals for health care programs. The parallel import mechanism was introduced in 2022, but its full launch is expected after obtaining permissions and licenses from economic entities.
This news indicates that in Ukraine, the parallel import mechanism for medicines is facing challenges due to the lack of economic entities that would have permissions for this activity. This may lead to limited access to quality medical products, competition in the market, and flexibility in their supply system. It is expected that the full operation of the mechanism will become possible after obtaining the relevant permissions from the companies that wish to engage in the parallel import of medicines.