Concerns Are Raised About Actions Limiting Drug Supply Amid COVID-19

Aware that travel restrictions and border controls imposed by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pose a threat to drug supply, the International Generic and Biosimilar Medicines Association (IGBA) is working to establish priority designations for medicines in air and sea cargo transport.

The move is among diverse attempts by private and public institutions recently to secure supplies of drugs and pharmaceuticals amid the dizzying pace of events. “The situation is constantly and rapidly changing,” said Suzette Kox, secretary general of IGBA, in an interview with The Center for Biosimilars.

In recent days, many have spoken out against export curbs and other protectionist measures that threaten to upset the balance of international healthcare. Some actions by governments have involved instating emergency powers to bypass patent exclusivity protections where necessary.

To read the rest of the story visit The Center for Biosimilars.