CPC: No Grounds for Increasing Medicine Prices

The Commission for Protection of Competition (CPC) held meetings with the Bulgarian Association of Traders of Wholesale and Retail of Medicines (BATWRL) and the Association of Research-based Pharmaceutical Manufacturers in Bulgaria (ARPharM), the institution announced. The meetings took place as part of the ongoing sectoral analysis of the wholesale and retail markets for medicinal products and were scheduled prior to the New Year holidays.

The discussions were prompted by media reports regarding a potential increase in medicine prices. The regulator raised the question of the basis for such statements and whether they are supported by objective market factors. In response, representatives of both associations categorically stated that there are no prerequisites for a price increase and none is expected.

It was emphasized that the medicinal products market is highly regulated, and pricing is subject to strict control by the competent authorities. Consequently, arbitrary price increases outside the framework defined by the current regulations are not possible. Nevertheless, the CPC stated that, within the scope of the sectoral analysis, it will investigate all reports of unlawful price increases. Should evidence of unjustified growth emerge, the information will be forwarded to the National Revenue Agency and the Commission for Consumer Protection for action in accordance with the Law on the Introduction of the Euro.

Business representatives further assured that all necessary measures have been taken for the smooth introduction of the euro in the pharmacy network, and currently, no difficulties are observed regarding payment for medicinal products with the new currency.

During the meetings, measures to overcome market deficits identified during the sectoral analysis were also discussed, including the introduction of good European distribution practices, enhanced control over parallel trade in medicines, and other regulatory mechanisms.