The president of the Syndicate of Pharmaceutical Importers and Warehouse Owners, Joseph Gharib, stated Wednesday that the current stock of medications held by importers and pharmaceutical institutions is sufficient for five months. In a reassuring statement, he added that the strategic reserves of medications are enough "to meet the market's needs for four months."

This announcement comes as Israel continues its relentless attacks on southern Lebanon and the Bekaa Valley, following the launch of Operation Arrows of the North on Sept. 23, which has expanded its raids and bombings to areas that had never been targeted before.

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Gharib noted that there has not been any panic-driven rush by the population to stockpile medications. "Despite the war, the demand for medications has not increased abnormally, reflecting the stability of Lebanon's pharmaceutical market," he said.

He also emphasized that, for now, the supply chains for medication have not been disrupted by the conflict. "As long as the ports remain open and unblocked, import companies will be able to meet market needs," he added, stating that import companies are continuously working to increase stock levels.

Since late 2023, the Syndicate, in coordination with the Ministry of Public Health, has taken precautionary measures to ensure the continuity of medication supplies.

Priorities

Addressing medications for cancer, incurable diseases and chronic conditions, Gharib stressed that these are "highly prioritized." He confirmed that general stock levels for such medications are sufficient for several months, including cancer and dialysis treatments. "Medications are being regularly delivered to pharmaceutical institutions, and a coordination service ensures deliveries are made even in areas facing logistical challenges," he explained.

Regarding medications for treating war injuries, Gharib assured that there is a strategic stock sufficient for four months, and efforts are underway to increase these supplies in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Health. He added that "the current situation is much better than at the start of the financial crisis."

Meanwhile, Lebanon’s caretaker Minister of Industry George Bouchikian, during visits to pharmaceutical companies producing medicines, serums and other medical equipment, stated that these companies' production lines "are operating at full capacity, in line with the emergency plan."

"Production is prioritizing the needs of those displaced from the South," he said.

Joe Salloum, president of the Order of Pharmacists, had also reassured earlier that medications for chronic illnesses remain available at factories and warehouses for about six months. "We are developing a plan to ensure these medications reach pharmacies and hospitals, even if roads are closed," he noted.