The Algerian government has announced plans to restrict the sale of dietary supplements to licensed pharmacies. The move is aimed at improving consumer safety and quality. According to Health Minister Mohamed Seddik Aït Messaoudène, a new executive decree is being drafted to regulate the sale of supplements. The decree is expected to be published in the Journal officiel soon.
The new regulations will set technical characteristics for dietary supplements and aim to better control their use. The government hopes to establish a national framework for supplements, aligned with international standards. By limiting sales to pharmacies, authorities aim to provide better guidance to consumers and reduce risks associated with uncontrolled use.
However, not all industry professionals agree with the new regulations. The National Association of Dietary Supplement Producers (APACA) has expressed concerns about excluding certain stakeholders from the distribution process. The association argues that a monopoly on distribution could be established, and that other players in the sector should be allowed to continue selling supplements.
APACA emphasizes the importance of distributors in the development of the sector and requests that their experience be taken into account in the new regulatory framework. While supporting stricter regulations, the association advocates for a more inclusive approach that considers the realities on the ground. APACA wants to ensure that different stakeholders can work together in a structured and secure system.
The debate centers around balancing stricter health controls, consumer protection, and distribution organization. The Health Ministry's plan to reserve supplement sales for pharmacies has sparked disagreement with producers. The new regulations aim to address concerns about uncontrolled use and ensure that supplements are sold in a secure and monitored environment.
In addition to regulating supplement sales, the Health Ministry has drafted a decree on prescription and dispensing conditions for pharmaceutical products. This decree, also approved by the Council of Ministers, aims to define a framework for rational use of pharmaceuticals. The Ministry hopes to promote responsible prescribing and dispensing practices.
The new regulations are expected to have a significant impact on the dietary supplement industry in Algeria. While some stakeholders welcome stricter controls, others are concerned about the potential consequences for their businesses. As the government moves forward with implementing the new regulations, industry players will be watching closely to ensure that their concerns are addressed.
Key points
- Algeria plans to restrict dietary supplement sales to licensed pharmacies.
- The new regulations aim to improve consumer safety and quality.
- Industry stakeholders have expressed concerns about the potential impact on their businesses.
