Algerian Pharmaceutical Company Sidal Responds to Social Security Fund Decision

Algerian pharmaceutical company Sidal has responded to a decision by the National Social Security Fund for Wage Earners to suspend a payment system for medicines at its pharmacies. Sidal stated that its pharmacy operations are based on legal, administrative, and institutional grounds. The company's pharmacies, known as "Sidal Pharmacies," have been operating since 1997, with a license granted by the Ministry of Health.

According to Sidal, the license, granted on December 27, 1997, is still in effect and has not been revoked or expired. The company's operations are also governed by a 2025 decision by the Council of State Shareholdings, which oversees state-owned enterprises. This decision assigned Sidal the task of managing the former state-owned enterprise "Indimad," including its assets and activities.

Sidal's response comes after the National Social Security Fund for Wage Earners announced on November 15 that it would suspend a payment system for medicines at Sidal pharmacies. The fund cited concerns that Sidal's pharmacy operations may not be compliant with Algerian laws and regulations. Sidal has said that it will continue to engage with relevant authorities to clarify the legal and regulatory aspects of its operations.

The company emphasized its commitment to operating within the framework of Algerian laws and regulations. Sidal has reassured its patients and partners that it will continue to provide its services without interruption. The company has also expressed its willingness to work with relevant authorities to find solutions that ensure the continuity of its operations.

The decision by the National Social Security Fund for Wage Earners affects not only Sidal pharmacies but also other healthcare providers. The fund's decision was based on information from the Ministry of Labor and the Ministry of Health, which raised concerns about the legal and regulatory framework governing Sidal's pharmacy operations.

Sidal's operations are an important part of Algeria's healthcare sector. The company has a significant presence in the country's pharmaceutical market and provides a range of healthcare services. The suspension of the payment system by the National Social Security Fund for Wage Earners may have implications for patients who rely on Sidal pharmacies for their medication.

The Algerian government has been working to strengthen the regulatory framework governing the healthcare sector. The Ministry of Health has been reviewing the licensing and accreditation of healthcare providers, including pharmacies. Sidal's response to the National Social Security Fund for Wage Earners' decision highlights the complexities of the regulatory environment in Algeria's healthcare sector.

Key points

• Sidal's pharmacy operations are based on a license granted by the Ministry of Health in 1997.
• The National Social Security Fund for Wage Earners suspended a payment system for medicines at Sidal pharmacies on November 15.
• Sidal has reassured its patients and partners that it will continue to provide its services without interruption.