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OTTAWA (Reuters) – Canada on Saturday blocked wholesale exports of prescription drugs if they created a shortage at home, in response to efforts by outgoing US President Donald Trump to allow imports from Canada to lower the prices of some. drugs for Americans.
“Some drugs destined for the Canadian market cannot be distributed for consumption outside Canada if that sale causes or worsens a shortage of drugs,” Health Minister Patty Hajdu said in a statement.
“Companies will now also be required to provide information to assess existing or potential deficiencies when requested, and within 24 hours if there is a serious or imminent health risk,” the statement said.
The Canadian measure went into effect on Friday, just days before a US “import of prescription drugs” rule that would eventually allow licensed US pharmacists or wholesalers to import certain prescription drugs in bulk destined for the Canadian market.
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 set up a similar import plan to try to cut prescription drug costs for Americans.
“Canada is a small market, accounting for 2% of global drug sales, supplying 68% of its drugs internationally. The need for vigilance in maintaining 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 protecting the needs of Canadians.
Many of the Canadian drug suppliers have opposed Trump’s plan, saying it could lead to shortages.
Reporting by Steve Scherer, additional reporting by Alexandra Alper in Washington; Editing by Nick Zieminski
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