Pharmacies are prohibited from using «social» names - the Cabinet of Ministers

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has decided to ban pharmacies from using names that are related to prices and aimed at serving specific social groups. The announcement was made by the government's representative in the Verkhovna Rada, Taras Melnychuk, during a meeting on July 11.

Relevant changes were made to the license conditions for conducting business activities for the production of medicines, wholesale and retail trade in medicines, and import of medicines (except for active pharmaceutical ingredients).

According to the new rules, only the name of the licensee, the pharmacy or a trademark legally owned by the licensee may be indicated on external signs and advertising structures of the pharmacy. However, there is an important condition - these names must not contain any indication of the level or signs of prices that may influence consumers and their decision to purchase goods from this institution.

In addition, the names of pharmacies should not contain any information elements that may mislead consumers about the pharmacy's focus on serving certain social groups or comparisons with other pharmacies.

The ban on the use of "social" names of pharmacies is a step towards ensuring honesty and transparency in the pharmacy industry. This decision is aimed at preventing possible manipulation and deception of consumers. The rules also ensure a level playing field for all pharmacies, preventing some establishments from having an undue competitive advantage over others based on their name.

This regulation will help create a more transparent and equal environment for consumers, where they can make an informed choice when buying medicines. The Cabinet of Ministers hopes that such measures will increase consumer confidence in the pharmacy industry and protect them from unfair practices of some pharmacies.