Algeria’s “Endimed” to be wound up

Algeria's pharmaceutical distribution company “Endimed” will be wound up by the end of 2010 and the State will be in charge of more than 2,000 workers’ rights, Algerian industry minister said.

• “Endimed’s pharmacies will be transferred in favour of young people and municipalities,” Mohamed Ben Merradi told parliament members.
• The decision raised fears among the parliament members over the future of rural areas where Endimed provides medicines.
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• The minister said the State will produce medicines locally keeping watch on their quality. A plan will be implemented in collaboration with Saidal to develop medicines production including generic medicines. “This plan is meant to reduce import bill.”
• Pharmacies activity is organised under a law which focuses on two important sides: price and distribution. “This activity is not limited in the State only. “Endimed used to be in charge alone of this sector,” said the minister.
• Endimed includes 8,000 pharmacies while it runs 900 only. Private companies have occupied an important place in pharmacy activity. Because of that, Endimed’s activities focused on isolated places in the country.
• Endimed gave up 270 pharmacies to young people. Of them, 76 were transferred to the private sector. A total 32 are still

  managed by hospitals. Some 347 pharmacies are under Endimed’s control in a large number of areas.