Georgian Health Minister: productive discussions held with pharmaceutical companies on prices, accessibility

Georgia’s Health Minister on Wednesday said a “very productive meeting” was held with representatives of pharmaceutical companies to discuss food product prices, medicine costs, and accessibility. 

Mikheil Sarjveladze claimed the discussions explored not only the government’s perspective but also the views of sector representatives on potential price reductions and improving product availability.

“Clearly, it was a very interesting meeting. Many opinions were expressed on how not only the state but also sector representatives see the issues of price reduction and product accessibility. There were also discussions on quality and other accessibility components,” the minister said during the government coordination commission meeting on food product prices.

The commission, led by Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, is tasked with monitoring and addressing prices in food products, medicines, and fuel.

Sarjveladze, commenting on the meeting, also said that discussions with sector representatives provide a good perspective for taking concrete steps and achieving the commission’s main objectives.

“This is a very specific sector, unlike others where mechanisms are already in place. Naturally, work in this direction will continue. It is also noteworthy that the sector itself is unequivocally positive and looks optimistically at price optimization and fairer regulation,” Sarjveladze added.

The meeting was conducted in a discussion format and attended by representatives from 25 pharmaceutical companies.