Current issue #17, 2018

State Duma passes bills to counteract US sanctions

Recently, the State Duma of Russia has unanimously voted for the bill that may restrict sales of US drugs in this country. Court action may be taken against the Russian citizens who harbor the implementation of US sanctions in Russia.

[PharmVestnik # 17, 22/05/2018, p. 1, cont’d p. 2]

// Pharma Industry – General

Who will push the Russian pharma to a new level?

The Russian pharmaceutical industry and drug coverage system stand on the verge of major changes driven by the economic and political turbulence, new Cabinet, nearing completion of the Pharma-2020 Program, and development of the Pharma-2030 strategy. Russia has ambitions of developing proprietary drugs and emerging as a notable player on the world pharma market. It cannot do without large domestic players.

[PharmVestnik # 17, 22/05/2018, p. 4]

// Health Strategies & Programs

Political cowardice hampers launch of drug reimbursement programs

The Russian health system’s paradox is that more than 70% of the population pay for drugs out of their pocket. More to it, their decision to buy a specific pharmaceutical product is often guided by marketing professionals. Experts have no clue as to how to implement the president’s task of joining the 80+ Longevity Club by the end of the next decade. However, the opinions that the nonexistent drug reimbursement programs may trigger collapse of the entire healthcare system are being voiced in a clearer and tougher manner.

[PharmVestnik # 17, 22/05/2018, p. 5]

// Intellectual Property

Enforcement actions against intellectual property rights violators prove ineffective

The AIPM has continuously risen the issue of investment protection through guaranteed intellectual property rights in Russia within the framework of Adam Smith Pharma Conferences. This year, international pharma market players once again note that their dialogue with the regulators is ongoing, but the threat of intellectual property rights violations is still high. It is confirmed by the cases of generics selling on the Russian market prior to expiry of originator drug patents.

[PharmVestnik # 17, 22/05/2018, p. 6]

// Court Action

RIA Panda owner charged with tax default

Igor Vorobey, the owner and CEO of RIA Panda Ltd., has been detained by St. Petersburg law enforcement authorities for tax non-payment. He has been placed under house arrest.

[PharmVestnik # 17, 22/05/2018, p. 6]

// Regulatory & Legal – Pharma & Medical

Experts propose drug review and ...