Question : IMPORT OF MEDICINES DRUGS

(a) the quantum and value of medicines/drugs imported during each of the last three years and the current year, country-wise;

(b) whether India is largely dependent on China to meet the bulk requirement of various drugs including essential drugs;

(c) if so, the details thereof along with the reasons therefor;

(d) whether the export of medicines/ drugs is being affected adversely due to over emphasis of Indian pharmaceutical companies on manufacture of high cost drugs and value added products in the value chain of drug manufacturing; and

(e) if so, the remedial measures taken/ proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) (SMT. NIRMALA SITHARAMAN)

(a) The quantum and value of medicines/drugs imported during each of the last three years and the current year, country-wise may be seen at Annexure-I.

(b) & (c) No, Madam. The Indian pharma industry is self-sufficient in production of majority of formulations / pharmaceutical products. The imports are being resorted to for economic consideration and not necessarily due to non-availability from domestic sources.

(d) There is no information available about any adverse effects on export of medicines/drugs, due to overemphasis of Indian pharmaceutical companies on manufacturing of high cost drugs and value added products. The pharmaceutical companies in India manufacture both high cost and low cost drugs.

(e) Question does not arise.