Iran pharmaceutical industry faces supply chain and liquidity crisis

The Iranian pharmaceutical industry is facing a critical impasse due to several systemic issues, according to Mohammad Abdozadeh, head of the Syndicate of Iranian Human Medicine Manufacturers. Key challenges include liquidity shortages, accumulated receivables, difficulties in securing foreign currency, and recent disruptions in the transportation of raw materials.

These factors have led to medicine shortages, price increases, and irregular access for patients. The pharmaceutical supply chain is struggling with significant unpaid claims; by the end of June, claims from private and public centers exceeded 250 trillion tomans, with 74 trillion tomans owed by the government.

Furthermore, pharmacies are in a fragile state due to delayed payments, which prevents them from clearing checks and making new purchases. Abdozadeh emphasized that the industry requires increased support from external entities, such as the Central Bank and the Plan and Budget Organization, to stabilize the market.