Health Minister Nalinda Jayatissa has stated that the current shortage of medicines in Sri Lanka is not due to financial constraints.
Speaking at a ceremony in Ampara, he explained that the shortages are a result of procurement-related issues. Procurement processes for importing medicines have already begun, with supplies expected to arrive after November.
The Minister noted that some medicines are currently unavailable even in the private sector, including pharmacies. “We do not allow registration based on unlimited prices during the drug registration process. A specific price range has been set, considering the prevailing market situation in South Asian countries. Those unwilling to comply with this pricing structure have chosen not to supply medicines,” he said.
Minister Jayatissa added that the State Pharmaceuticals Corporation (SPC) has been tasked with procurement, with around 80–85% of the process already completed.
He also highlighted the broader economic impact of halted development projects in past years, which have placed an additional financial burden on the treasury. “There are 17 projects in Sri Lanka that are to be restarted after being halted. These projects have already cost the treasury Rs. 59 billion, although they were initially scheduled to be completed by 2018, 2020, or 2022 at a cost of Rs. 29 billion,” he stated.
