Even as central drug regulatory authorities are busy figuring out the real magnitude of "spurious drugs" issue in the country, the External Affairs Ministry has decided to be on alert against any possible negative impact, the sustained media coverage on "spurious drug presence" can create in the international markets. The ministry has initiated consultation with leading industry associations and is in the process of undertaking image building campaigns in major pharma markets of Indian interest.

The campaign would attempt to counter any misinformation that are likely to spread in African and CIS countries where Indian drug industry finds a great business potential. The idea is to ensure that Indian pharma companies are not losing any business due to the hue and cry within the country alleging India as the major source of spurious drugs worldwide.

Speaking to Pharmabiz.com, Yogin Majumudar, President, Indian Drugs Manufacturers Association agreed that there are chances for potential harm, given the seriousness of the allegations raised against the industry. He informed that IDMA is in close association with the external affairs ministry and is doing its best to ensure that the country is not losing any export orders due to "spurious drug" fear.

"There are no records to suggest that India is the hub of spurious drug market. Based on the recommendations of the Mashelkar Committee the central government is undertaking a scientific survey on spurious drugs. We will have to wait for the results of the survey before we can give proper answers to such allegations," he said.

The strategy of the central government would be to encourage the existing buyers of Indian bulk / generic drugs to form local associations to stand against any negative campaigns.

Pharmabiz, in a previous report (To view the previous report click here) had hinted about discussions carried out by the Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA), Indian Drug Manufacturers Association (IDMA) and the Confederation of Indian Pharmaceutical Industries (CIPI) on the issue of spurious drugs.

The market access campaigns of the Union Commerce Ministry are also to augment these efforts. As part of the Market Access Initiatives, the commerce ministry is in the process of organizing buyer seller meets, conducting market studies and taking business delegations to Latin American, African and CIS countries.