Following revelations implicating former health minister and high-ranking officials in the import of substandard Immunoglobulin injections, Sri Lanka has heightened penalties for the supply or sale of substandard medicines. The fine for individuals found guilty of this offense has significantly increased from Rs.100 to Rs.100,000.
Previously, the fine for compromising the quality of a specific medicine and intentionally dispensing it from a dispensary was a mere 100 rupees. This adjustment reflects a response to the pressing need for more stringent measures to ensure the quality and safety of pharmaceuticals in the country.
The initiative to enhance the fine was spearheaded by Dr. Wijayadasa Rajapaksa, the Minister of Judicial Prison Affairs and Constitutional Reform. The Cabinet of Ministers has reportedly given its approval to the proposal, signaling a commitment to address issues related to substandard drugs in the nation.
