Iran drug supply chain faces instability due to payment delays

The stability of Iran’s pharmaceutical supply chain is under significant pressure due to delays in insurance payments to pharmacies. Akbar Abdollahi-Asl, Director General of Drugs at the Food and Drug Organization, emphasized that timely settlement of pharmacy claims is essential to prevent financial strain and ensure the continuous provision of services to patients.

Mohammad Hashemi, spokesperson for the Food and Drug Organization, noted that payment delays for claims have increased from the previous 6 to 7 months to as long as 12 to 13 months. This delay creates a ripple effect throughout the supply chain. He attributed much of the difficulty in securing certain medications—particularly for chronic conditions like diabetes, cancer, and mental health disorders—to banking sanctions and restrictions on foreign currency transfers.

Addressing the issue of imported medicines, Hashemi explained that even when funds are allocated and raw materials are purchased, international banking hurdles often prevent the actual entry of products into the country. Resolving these issues requires coordinated action from insurance companies, the Plan and Budget Organization, and the Central Bank of Iran.