Minister of Health Dr Ahmed Al-Awadhi has issued a ministerial decision regulating the pricing mechanism for human medicines in the private sector, as part of efforts to enhance transparency and protect consumers.

In a press statement, the Ministry of Health said the decision establishes a clear and approved legislative framework for pricing medicines, requiring all human medicines to be registered and officially priced prior to being traded in the local market.

The decision also defines permissible profit margins and prohibits any form of price manipulation or excessive pricing, with the aim of preventing exploitation and ensuring fair access to medicines for consumers, reports Al-Rai daily.

The ministry explained that the pricing mechanism was developed based on Gulf and international benchmarks, as well as comprehensive economic studies, which were used as key references in determining medicine prices.

In addition, the decision introduces clear procedures for reviewing prices and submitting objections, in order to maintain a balanced approach that considers the interests of consumers, suppliers and the private healthcare sector.