Govt Urged to Stop Import of Medicines Already Produced in Nepal
Summary
The Association of Pharmaceutical Producers of Nepal urges the government to stop importing medicines already produced domestically, highlighting challenges faced by local industries due to imported competition and calling for supportive policies.
Key Points
- Nepal has become self-sufficient in many medicines but faces competition from imported drugs, especially from India.
- About 10 pharmaceutical industries in Nepal have shut down while 50 are at risk due to imported medicine competition.
- APPON urges the government to stop importing medicines produced locally and reform customs duties, VAT, and licensing to support domestic producers.
- Nepali pharmaceutical industries face financial challenges and call for lower bank interest rates, easier technology import, and export opportunities.
