Kolkata's Pharmaceutical Sector Awaits Clarity on Duty-Free Medicines Implementation
While the Union government's 2026-27 budget proposal to eliminate customs duty on seventeen critical medicines promises significant price reductions for patients in Kolkata, the city's drug retailers find themselves in a state of uncertainty regarding implementation timelines and existing inventory pricing.
Retailers Seek Government Guidance on Pricing Transition
According to industry representatives, medicines with reduced prices are expected to reach Kolkata's retail market within approximately two months. However, confusion prevails among chemists regarding how to price products already in stock, with many awaiting detailed orders from the Centre.
"The government needs to issue a formal notice specifying the exact dates from which the duty exemptions will take effect," emphasized Rajendra Khandelwal of Dhanwantary Pharma. "We anticipate that products with revised pricing will become available in the Kolkata market by the end of March."
Specialized Medicines with Substantial Price Impact
Most of the medicines included in the duty exemption list are high-cost specialty drugs used for treating serious conditions. A reduction of approximately 10% in customs duty is projected to translate into substantial price decreases for patients.
"Many of these products are not typically sold through mainstream retail channels," explained Khandelwal. "They are primarily prescribed by a limited number of specialized doctors, with most patients obtaining them through distributors via their physicians. However, some larger retailers do stock these medications."
Patient Benefits and Treatment Continuity
Prithwi Bose, General Secretary of the Bengal Chemists and Druggists Association, highlighted the potential impact on treatment adherence. "Patients who previously struggled to afford these expensive treatments often discontinued them midway," he noted. "The price reduction will make it easier for them to complete their prescribed courses."
To illustrate the financial relief, Bose cited specific examples:
- Ribociclib, used in breast cancer treatment, currently costs Rs 24,355 for a strip of 21 tablets. A 10% reduction would provide significant savings.
- Abemaciclib, prescribed for hormone-related cancers, sells for approximately Rs 22,383 for a strip of 14 tablets.
- Tremelimumab, which enhances the immune system's ability to combat cancer independently, carries a price tag of Rs 1.8 lakh for 30 tablets (2 mg).
Operational Challenges for Retailers
Somnath Ghosh of Metro Pharma raised practical concerns about the transition period. "We require clarification regarding refund mechanisms for duty components already paid on existing inventory," he stated. "While patients will naturally demand medicines at reduced prices, these drugs are so expensive that neither retailers nor wholesalers can absorb the price differential without proper reimbursement systems."
The pharmaceutical community in Kolkata remains cautiously optimistic about the policy's potential benefits while emphasizing the need for clear implementation guidelines to ensure a smooth transition that serves both patients and businesses effectively.
