E-drug: Views on parallel imports (cont'd)
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Dear Mr Wong,
Regarding your recent E-drug query, we understand your concern
as they are quite the same in the Philippines. We have initiated some
steps to legally recognize and register parallel imports. One of these
steps include rectifying a misconception and wrong definition in our
implementing rules and regulations on counterfeit drugs. We maintain
that parallel imports of same branded drugs from the same
manufacturer in another country should not be confused with a
counterfeit drug (those not containing active ingredients or containing
substandard ingredients). Parallel imports should be differentiated from
smuggling; which is an illegal activity. Parallel imports are oftentimes
cheaper than those existing in some countries, particularly if one has
"exclusive distributorship" of a particular brand; and then you have a
monopoly. Your problem might be determining how to source the
same branded product from the same company in another country and
determining if labelling requirements are compatible with local
regulations and that the ingredients are genuine. Good luck. We will
be interested to know what you intend to do in your country.
Kenneth Hartigan-Go
Department of Health
Philippines
e-mail: hartigan@doh.gov.ph
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