SMCS Risk recently presented a report to Astra Zeneca outlining its findings on illegal medicine in Cambodia.
SMCS Risk monitors the sale & distribution of Astra Zeneca medicine in Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos and investigates allegations of illegal medicine trade involving Astra Zeneca medicine.
Astra Zeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical business with innovative medicines used by millions of patients worldwide.
Astra Zeneca is a leader in ensuring that patient safety stays at the forefront of its business, and given that the Cambodian Government has voiced concerns about the increase in fake medicines and products in Cambodia, Astra Zeneca requested SMCS Risk to conduct an investigation into the availability of illegal Astra Zeneca medicine in Cambodia.
Between the 1st of August 2017 and the 31st of July 2018, SMCS Risk conducted its investigation in 7 geographical locations in Cambodia, targeting 480 premises identified as pharmacies and clinics.
Due to its investigative nature and confidential information, the report will not be released to the public, however, SMCS Risk can state that numerous pharmacies and clinics in Cambodia were identified as being involved in the trade of illegal medicine.
“The number of premises identified selling illegal medicine is concerning but not surprising.” said Steve Morrish, CEO of SMCS Risk.
“When the regulation and compliance of venues who sell medicine is weak and offenders who sell illegal medicine are only given warnings and not criminally prosecuted or have their licenses revoked, the commercial incentive to import and sell illegal medicine will always outweigh the threat of prosecution in Cambodia.” said Morrish.
SMCS Risk is liaising with Cambodia’s Ministry of Health and National Police to discuss the findings and take action on venues identified in selling illegal medicine.
If any person suspects that a pharmacy, clinic or medical person is involved in the trade of illegal medicine or that the Astra Zeneca medicine they have been sold is suspicious, please contact SMCS Risk immediately.