Considerations for Importation of Generic Medicines into Singapore
Debated in Parliament on 7 Aug 2024.
Summary
- Assoc Prof Jamus Lim inquired about the Health Sciences Authority's role in the importation of generic medicines into Singapore.
- Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung affirmed that the import of generic medicines is encouraged after original patents expire.
- All medicines, including generics, must meet safety, quality, efficacy, and Good Distribution Practice standards as evaluated by the Health Sciences Authority before being supplied in Singapore.
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Full Transcript
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Health (a) whether the Health Sciences Authority exercises any guidance or determination over the importation of generic medicines into Singapore; (b) if so, what are the considerations for determining whether a generic medicine can be imported into Singapore; and (c) if not, why not.
Ong Ye Kung
We encourage the import of generic medicines into Singapore, after the original patents have expired. However, all medicines, including generic medicines, have to be evaluated and approved by the Health Sciences Authority for safety, quality, efficacy and ability to meet Good Distribution Practice standards before they can be supplied in Singapore.