Carsten Linnemann pledges support for German pharmacies

Newly sworn-in German Health Minister Dr. Carsten Linnemann delivered his first speech at the German Pharmacists' Day, emphasizing support for the pharmaceutical middle class and fair competition.

Linnemann highlighted the role of public pharmacies in revitalizing city centers and ensuring regional medicine supplies. He also addressed the competitive challenges posed by foreign mail-order pharmacies, noting that domestic businesses must adhere to strict regulations and tax obligations while facing market share losses to international competitors operating under different conditions.

Industry commentators expressed cautious optimism regarding the Minister's stance. Tom Bellartz, CEO of ELPATO Media Group, noted that while positive sentiment is helpful, political action regarding regional supply and local presence is necessary. Patrick Hollstein, Editor-in-Chief of APOTHEKE ADHOC, suggested that the true test will be how the Minister handles upcoming structural issues in health policy.