Mr. Joseph Ghorayeb, President of the Lebanese Pharmaceutical Importers and Wholesalers Association (LPIA): Medicine stocks are sufficient for 5 months

Beirut, September 25, 2024: Amid the ongoing Israeli attacks on Lebanon, Mr. Joseph Ghorayeb, President of the Lebanese Pharmaceutical Importers and Wholesalers Association (LPIA), reassures citizens about the availability of medicine in the market. He confirms that the related stock possessed by importers and pharmaceutical institutions is sufficient for 5 months. Below are the key points regarding the current stock situation:

First, the strategic medicine stock consists of several components, with the reserve stock playing a key role in handling any supply disruption. The quantity currently held by importing companies is sufficient to meet market needs for around four months.

Second, despite the ongoing attacks and war, there has been no unusual rush by citizens to purchase medicine, reflecting the overall stability of Lebanon's pharmaceutical market.

Third, the logistical supply chains for medicine have not been affected by the conflict so far. Importing companies continue to meet market demand, as long as national ports remain unaffected. Companies are also working continuously to increase stock levels.

Fourth, since the end of 2023, LPIA has taken proactive measures to ensure the continuity of the supplies, in close coordination with the Ministry of Public Health. Efficient contingency measures have been implemented to guarantee the availability of essential supplies in case of emergencies. The strategic stock is sufficient for extended periods, and importing companies prioritize medicine with no alternatives to ensure they remain available in the stock.

Fifth, regarding medications for cancer and chronic diseases, these categories are currently given top priority. The stock of these medicines, including cancer treatments and dialysis drugs, is sufficient for several months. Furthermore, stocks are being regularly distributed to pharmaceutical institutions. In areas facing delivery challenges, immediate coordination with pharmacies and relevant institutions is initiated to ensure market availability.

Sixth and last, for medicines needed to treat war injuries, importing companies confirm that the current strategic stock is sufficient for four months. They are also working with the Ministry of Public Health to further increase these stock levels.

In conclusion, Joseph Ghorayeb, President of the Lebanese Pharmaceutical Importers and Wholesalers Association (LPIA), assures that the market remains stable, and the current situation is significantly better compared to the one witnessed at the onset of the financial crisis.