The Moroccan Agency for Medicines and Health Products has denied reports from various media outlets regarding claims of a shortage affecting over 600 drugs used to treat chronic diseases.
In a statement, the agency expressed its surprise at the circulated figures, noting that if true, such claims would have a direct and serious impact on the national health system. The agency stated that this situation “does not exist in reality.”
The agency acknowledged that while there may be occasional shortages of certain medications, this is a global issue faced by many countries, resulting from challenges related to international supply chains and raw materials, as well as changes in global markets. Despite these challenges, which are beyond the control of any single nation, Morocco is effectively and flexibly addressing the issue to ensure the continuity of treatment for patients.
According to the statement, the Moroccan Agency for Medicines and Health Products, along with all relevant parties, particularly the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, is giving considerable attention to this matter. This includes monitoring and analyzing drug supply at the national level through its vigilance and market tracking department. Additionally, the agency focuses on early detection of any potential supply tensions and supports policies aimed at ensuring citizens’ access to essential medications.
The agency highlighted its success in identifying and addressing potential shortages before they escalate.
It also noted that as part of its strategy to achieve national pharmaceutical sovereignty, it has pursued a clear vision since its establishment, promoting local manufacturing of medicines and health products. Significant progress has been made in this area, with an increase in the percentage of national pharmaceutical needs covered by locally manufactured drugs, thereby reducing dependence on imports and stabilizing the market.
The strategy also involves monitoring monopolized medications and opening the market for the registration of equivalent generic drugs. The agency is committed to ensuring fair competition and providing affordable therapeutic alternatives, benefiting patients and mitigating the impact of monopolies.
Furthermore, the statement emphasized that the agency’s strategy ensures the continuous supply of vital and essential medications to the national market through proactive planning, diversification of supply sources, and storage of strategic reserves of necessary drugs.
The agency reiterated its commitment to ongoing collaboration and coordination with all stakeholders in the sector to ensure the regular availability of essential medications, responding quickly and effectively to any situation threatening the balance of the national pharmaceutical market.
In conclusion, the agency affirmed that “the health of citizens is our top priority, and all efforts are focused on supplying the local market with essential medicines within the framework of national pharmaceutical sovereignty.”
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