The State Trading Organisation (STO) has commenced the process of transferring its pharmacy network to the State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Corporation Limited, a move aimed at strengthening the national system for the supply and distribution of medicines.
According to STO, the transition will be carried out in multiple phases, with the full transfer of more than 190 pharmacies expected to be completed by 15 February. Officials said the phased approach is intended to ensure continuity of services while the handover is finalised.
The State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Corporation Limited was incorporated on 9 September last year by a presidential decree, under Section 15 of the Companies Act. The company is fully owned by the government and was established to centralise and expand the bulk import of medicines, medical consumables and medical equipment, and to distribute them more efficiently across the Maldives.
Authorities say the transfer of pharmacies is part of broader government efforts to address long-standing challenges faced by the public in accessing medicines. These measures, officials noted, are already beginning to provide relief, particularly in improving availability and supply consistency.
The government has also reiterated its commitment to resolving medicine shortages, with plans underway to expand both the list of approved drugs and the national essential medicines list. As part of these reforms, medicine imports have been significantly increased, rising from around 200 previously to between 800 and 900 at present.
Officials say the consolidation of pharmacy operations under the new corporation is expected to improve coordination, strengthen supply chains, and ensure more reliable access to medicines nationwide.
