Monday Aug 24, 2026
Monday Aug 24, 2026
Friday, 21 August 2026 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}
The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the swift implementation of National Medicinal Drug Policy 2026-2030, aimed at improving access to affordable, quality medicines, while strengthening pharmaceutical supply chains and local production.
The policy prioritises ensuring sustainable, equitable and affordable access to safe and quality medicines that meet international standards and address the health needs of the public. It also seeks to promote the use of scientifically sound and cost-effective medical products by healthcare professionals and consumers, with the aim of improving treatment outcomes and reducing wastage.
Another key priority is to strengthen domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing, with greater emphasis on producing essential medical products with certified efficacy, safety and quality.
Cabinet Spokesperson and Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa told the weekly post-Cabinet meeting media briefing that the new policy replaces the National Pharmaceutical Policy formulated in 2005. Although efforts were initiated to update the policy, the process remained incomplete between 2020 and 2025.
He said the new 2026-2030 policy takes into account experience gained from implementing the existing framework, evolving healthcare needs, changes in global pharmaceutical markets, vulnerabilities in medicine supply chains and emerging requirements for expanding local pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Dr. Jayatissa said the policy is intended to support the Government’s broader health objective of ensuring that all Sri Lankans have access to safe, effective and quality essential medicines at affordable prices, while creating a more resilient and efficient pharmaceutical sector.
The proposal to this effect was submitted by Health Minister Dr. Jayatissa.
