The National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) says it is considering an increase in medicine prices following the depreciation of the Sri Lankan rupee against the US dollar.
NMRA Chairman Specialist Dr. Ananda Wijewickrama stated that the relevant procedures are currently underway and that authorities are studying the impact of rising import and production costs on the pharmaceutical sector.
According to Dr. Wijewickrama, preliminary steps have already been taken to revise prices of both imported medicines and locally manufactured pharmaceutical products.
He further noted that price revisions are also being considered for around 60 categories of medicines currently subject to maximum retail prices fixed through gazette notifications.
Commenting on the situation, Dr. Wijewickrama said the depreciation of the rupee has increased costs across multiple sectors, including healthcare and pharmaceuticals.
He explained that because a large proportion of medicines used in Sri Lanka are imported, fluctuations in exchange rates have directly affected procurement costs.
However, he clarified that not all medicines are expected to see price increases, with only selected categories likely to be affected.
Authorities say further assessments are ongoing as they seek to balance affordability for patients while ensuring the continued availability of essential medicines in the market.
