Press Information Bureau

Government of India

Ministry of Commerce & Industry

07-May-2012 15:30 IST

Ban on Indian Drug Manufacturers

No report on banning of any Indian drug manufacturer has come to the notice of Government of India. Some media reports appeared in Sri Lankan press alleging supply of low quality drugs by Indian exporters. There were other reports alleging suspension of some Indian companies by Government of Sri Lanka for violation of tender terms. Discussions were held with concerned authorities in Sri Lankan Government by the High Commission of India in Sri Lanka as also during the visit of Health Minister of Sri Lanka to New Delhi during July-August, 2011 wherein the need for clear technical specifications in the tendering process was stressed so as to prevent entry of sub-standard and low quality drugs in Sri Lankan market.

Drugs and pharmaceutical products are exported only after meeting stringent regulatory requirements prescribed by the regulatory authorities in various countries. Besides, Indian exporters have to comply with quality norms prescribed for manufacturing of drugs and pharmaceuticals in India by Drug Controller General of India under Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Any reported violation is viewed seriously and is dealt with as per prescribed procedure under Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

This information was given by Shri Jyotiradiya M. Scindia, Minister of State for Commerce & Industry in written reply to a question in Lok Sabha today.

DS/GK

Drug quality regulation: exports must meet regulatory standards and alleged violations are addressed under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. No ban on Indian drug manufacturers has been recorded; media allegations of low-quality supplies and suspensions in Sri Lanka led to diplomatic discussions stressing clearer tender technical specifications. Indian exports must meet destination regulatory requirements and Indian manufacturing norms enforced by the Drug Controller General of India, and any violations are addressed under Drugs and Cosmetics Act.