The China Mail - India proposes more import entry points for drugs and medical devices

New Delhi The Union Health Ministry has proposed expanding the network of authorised import gateways for drugs, medical devices and cosmetics by adding several inland container depots, a special economic zone and an international airport to facilitate faster clearance and improve supply chain efficiency. The proposed amendment to Rule 43A of the Drugs Rules, 1945, seeks to include additional entry points in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Telangana and Karnataka, as reported by a gazette notification issued by the ministry. The proposed locations include Inland Container Depots (ICDs) at Sonipat, Piyala and Harsaru in Haryana; Dadri in Uttar Pradesh; Gandhidham/Mundra in Gujarat; Sanath Nagar and Thimmapur in Hyderabad; and Whitefield in Bengaluru. The ministry has also proposed including the Bommasandra Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Karnataka and Noida International Airport in Uttar Pradesh for the import of drugs by air.

Rule 43A specifies the authorised ports, airports, railway stations, road crossings and other entry points through which drugs can be imported into India. The proposed expansion is expected to allow importers to clear consignments closer to their manufacturing facilities, warehouses and distribution centres, reducing inland transportation distances and logistics costs, the ministry said in a statement on Tuesday. The move is also aimed at minimising delays in the movement of imported medicines, medical devices and cosmetics and improving their availability across different regions. The additional locations will be included in the existing network of authorised import gateways, which already includes ICDs at Dhannad and Tihi in Indore, Madhya Pradesh, along with notified airports.

The ministry has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders on the proposed amendment. Submissions can be sent to the Under Secretary (Drugs Regulation), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

B.Clarke--ThChM