Local manufactures call for a ban on imported drugs

By Prossy Nandudu

Manufacturers of medical supplies in Uganda have asked the Government to ban the importation of supplies that serve the same purpose as those made in Uganda.

“Local manufacturers have no protection. We make enough products, but we are seeing many people importing what we make,” said Abacus Pararental Drugs managing director Harish Shah.

Shah was addressing members of the Uganda Manufacturer’s Association (UMA) at the Abacus premises recently.

“There is no way the local manufacturer can benefit from the local market if the same product he is making is being imported into the country and is sometimes cheaper,” Shah noted.

He said India and China do not import products that can be produced internally because their governments promote local products.

UMA executive director Ssebaggala Kigozi promised to lobby the Government to protect local manufacturers.

“What happens is that we may have products manufactured locally but have not been declared. Now that we are aware of the problem, we shall bring it to the attention of the Government and I am sure a solution will be found,” Ssebaggala said.

Abacus produces intravenous fluids and ear, eye and nasal drops.