Dr. Shah: Addressing medicine shortage is not intended at profiting

Managing Director of the State Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supply Corporation (SPMSC) Dr. Shah Mahir states the corporation's primary objective is not to maximize profits but to ensure the continuous and uninterrupted availability of essential medicines across the Maldives.

Speaking on a program aired by Dhivehi Rajjeyge Adu, Shah, a medical doctor by profession, said the corporation's core mandate is the bulk procurement and distribution of pharmaceuticals and medical equipment nationwide. He stressed that, unlike conventional businesses, the pharmaceutical sector is directly linked to public health and patient welfare, requiring SPMSC to operate with a service-oriented approach.

Noting that medicine shortages have been a longstanding challenge in the Maldives, Shah said SPMSC is working to implement a comprehensive and sustainable solution. As part of these efforts, the corporation is developing a digital system using modern technology to strengthen inventory control and supply chain management.

According to the corporation, SPMSC is currently implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system that will enable real-time monitoring of the country's pharmaceutical inventory. The system is expected to allow the corporation to track stock levels at pharmacies nationwide and facilitate timely replenishment before supplies run out. Plans are also underway to enhance medicine safety through barcode technology and cold-chain monitoring.

While the corporation currently imports unavailable medicines on prescription as an interim measure, Dr Shah said its long-term strategy is focused on proactive planning to prevent shortages.

He added that future plans include forecasting national demand for medicines to maintain sufficient stocks for one to two years. Although bulk procurement from major pharmaceutical manufacturers presents challenges due to the Maldives' relatively small population, Shah expressed confidence that these obstacles can be addressed through strategic planning. He reiterated that ensuring reliable access to medicines for the public remains the corporation's foremost priority, rather than generating higher profits.

The State Pharmaceuticals and Medical Supply Corporation was established in September 2025 under a presidential decree to centralise the procurement and supply of pharmaceuticals and medical necessities. These responsibilities were previously carried out by the State Trading Organization (STO). The corporation was formed to streamline the importation, warehousing, and distribution of medical supplies under a single entity to improve efficiency. As part of this effort, SPMSC has already established a dedicated 24-hour call centre.

As part of the transition, 193 pharmacies previously operated by STO, along with their employees, were officially transferred to SPMSC on July 1, marking the full commencement of the corporation's operations.