Peter Agius tables amendments to EU rules to improve medicines prices and availability in Malta

MEP Peter Agius has submitted a series of proposals in the European Parliament aimed at tackling Malta’s persistent problem of out-of-stock and overpriced medicines. 

“Many families in Malta frequently report ongoing issues with medicines that are either unavailable or too costly,” Agius said. “Part of the challenge lies in the difficulties faced by importers and the government in sourcing these medicines. As a Member of the European Parliament serving on the health committee, I have taken concrete action through amendments to European laws to address this issue.”

Agius has tabled several amendments to the European Union’s legislative proposals currently under negotiation in the European Parliament, focusing on improving prices and accessibility of medicines in Malta and the EU.

Among his proposals is the introduction of a ‘joint public procurement mechanism’ between three European countries, supported directly by the European Commission. This initiative would strengthen collaboration among smaller member states, allowing them to pool resources and negotiate better prices for essential medicines. With more quantities bought come better prices.

Dr Agius is also advocating for the introduction of a QR code system on medicine packaging. This system would provide instant electronic access to all relevant product information, enabling Malta to import medicines from any EU country rather than being limited to English-speaking markets.

Additionally, MEP Agius is proposing the extension of an existing derogation that allows Maltese importers to continue purchasing medicines from the United Kingdom post-Brexit. This measure would ensure continued access to medicines already labelled in English, preventing further shortages and unnecessary delays.

“These proposals are about ensuring that Maltese families have reliable and affordable access to the medicines they need,” Agius emphasised. “We must use Europe’s collective strength to overcome the challenges of scale that small member states like Malta face.”