Sunday Nov 16, 2025
Sunday Nov 16, 2025
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Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa
The Cabinet of Ministers on Monday approved a major procurement package aimed at strengthening local pharmaceutical production and ensuring uninterrupted medical supplies in 2025.
Speaking at the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing on Tuesday, Cabinet Spokesman and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa said under the latest approval, the State Pharmaceuticals Manufacturing Corporation (SPMC) will be entrusted with the supply of 24 categories of pharmaceuticals worth Rs. 1.148 billion.
“In addition, local manufacturers who have entered into joint venture agreements with the SPMC will supply 68 categories of pharmaceuticals valued at Rs. 4.159 billion and further 62 categories of pharmaceuticals, worth Rs. 5.116 billion, will be provided by local manufacturers operating under post-purchase agreements with the Health Ministry,” he added.
The Minister said the decision builds on an earlier Cabinet approval granted on 2 December 2024, which allowed the direct procurement of 291 essential pharmaceuticals and other medical supplies for the year 2025. “Those procurements were to be secured through the SPMC, local joint-venture manufacturers, and post-purchase agreements with private sector manufacturers. However, unforeseen challenges have since emerged, including the failure or expiration of certain stocks, the need to maintain adequate reserves, and higher-than-expected demand for specific medicines,” he said.
As a result, Dr. Jayatissa said the Ministry identified the necessity of procuring additional supplies, covering both pharmaceuticals and 123 other medical items, to meet the country’s healthcare requirements.
He highlighted the latest move is expected to strengthen domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing, while reducing dependency on imports, and safeguarding essential medical supplies to serve patients across the country.
The proposal to this effect was presented by the Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Jayatissa.
