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OTTAWA: Canada on Saturday (November 28) blocked bulk exports of prescription drugs if they created a shortage in the country, in response to efforts by outgoing US President Donald Trump to allow imports from Canada to cut back. Some drug prices for Americans.
“Certain drugs destined for the Canadian market are prohibited from being distributed for consumption outside of Canada if that sale causes or worsens a drug shortage,” Health Minister Patty Hajdu said in a statement.
“Companies will now also need to provide information to assess existing or potential shortages, when requested, and within 24 hours if there is a serious or imminent health risk,” the statement read.
The Canadian measure went into effect on Friday, just days before the US “Import Prescription Drug” rule that would eventually allow licensed US pharmacists or wholesalers to import certain prescription drugs destined for the Canadian market in bulk.
Neither the White House nor the Department of Health and Human Services had an immediate response to a request for comment.
Trump touted the plan in his first debate with President-elect Joe Biden, who also said during his campaign that he would establish a similar import plan to try to lower the costs of prescription drugs for Americans.
“Canada is a small market, accounting for 2 percent of global drug sales, sourcing 68 percent of its drugs internationally. The need for vigilance to maintain the national drug supply continues,” the statement said. .
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in September that he was willing to help other nations with pharmaceutical supplies if possible, adding that his priority was to protect the needs of Canadians.
Many of Canada’s drug suppliers opposed Trump’s plan, saying it could lead to shortages.
