Canada bans export of some prescription drugs to prevent shortages

A statement from Canada’s health ministry said the country sources 68 per cent of its drugs from overseas, although this latest announcement appears to be directed at US imports from Canada, and therefore it was important to avoid any disruptions to supplies.

“Companies will now also be required to provide information to assess existing or potential shortages when requested, and within 24 hours if there is a serious or imminent health risk,” the statement said.

A number of Canada’s drug suppliers had warned that the executive order signed in July by Donald Trump, which would allow for the legal importation of cheaper drugs from Canada, could lead to shortages.