The new Drugs and Cosmetics Act 2023 in Bangladesh is made to transform the pharmaceutical sector by addressing the issue of adulterated and substandard medicines. This legislation replaces the Drugs (Control) Ordinance 1982 and including severe penalties, for drug-related offenses. The Act also regulates cosmetics, controls antibiotic use, and introduces provisions for medical devices.
Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA) will establish a Department of Drug Prosecution to enforce these laws. Penalties for various violations, such as selling medicines without a prescription or a license, are significantly increased compared to the previous ordinance. The Act encompasses a wider range of offenses, including counterfeiting and artificially creating shortages, with the potential for life sentences.
Bangladesh’s pharmaceutical industry, comprising 284 registered companies, currently meets 98 percent of the $3.2 billion local market demand, with aspirations to expand its global presence. However, export data shows room for growth, with exports totaling $175.42 million, reflecting the industry’s potential for further expansion.
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