Cencosud and Falabella evaluate online medicine sales

Major Chilean retailers Cencosud and Falabella are evaluating ways to compete in the online medicine market following Mercado Libre’s entry into the sector.

While retail companies have long expressed interest in the pharmaceutical business, Chilean regulations currently restrict the sale of medications to authorized pharmacies. This differs from markets like the United States, where supermarkets can sell certain over-the-counter drugs.

Cencosud has previously engaged with the Instituto de Salud Pública (ISP) to discuss electronic sales for Farmacias Jumbo. However, industry sources suggest Cencosud may currently focus on selling dermocosmetic products through digital platforms or exploring partnerships with other companies. Under current regulations, online sales are permitted only for pharmacies that comply with specific electronic commerce frameworks.