Tunisian pharmacists to suspend third-party payment system

The Tunisian Syndicate of Private Pharmacy Owners (SPOT) has announced the suspension of the third-party payment system for beneficiaries of the National Health Insurance Fund (CNAM), effective November 1, 2026.

The syndicate cited the persistent failure of CNAM to honor contractual commitments and settle outstanding debts as the primary reasons for this decision. SPOT stated that the measure is necessary to ensure the continuity of pharmacy services and to maintain the ability of pharmacies to procure and supply medications amidst ongoing supply challenges.

In addition to the dispute with CNAM, the syndicate highlighted several structural issues, including heavy tax pressure on private pharmacies and a lack of regulation regarding non-compliant activities. While the suspension is set for 2026, the syndicate noted it had attempted to resolve the dispute through dialogue, including an extended deadline that passed without a resolution.