India Plans New Drug Import Gateways To Cut Clearance Delays
What Happened
: The Union Health Ministry has proposed 10 additional import gateways for drugs, medical devices and cosmetics across Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Telangana and Karnataka. These include eight inland container depots, Bengaluru’s Bommasandra SEZ and Noida International Airport. The proposal would amend Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945. The government says the move could speed up clearance and reduce inland transportation and logistics costs by allowing imports to be cleared closer to warehouses, manufacturing facilities and distribution centres. Stakeholder objections and suggestions have been invited.
Key Takeaways
More authorised entry points could make imports of medicines and medical devices faster and more efficient, while improving availability across regions.