Tunisia: Medication price hikes insufficient to cover pharmacy's deficit

Recent adjustments to the reference prices of medications by Tunisia's Central Pharmacy (PCT) will not resolve the public institution's structural deficit, according to Naoufel Amira, former president of the pharmacists' union. These periodic price revisions, similar to those in previous years, apply to a range of treatments but remain insufficient to cover the actual cost of imported and distributed products.

“

the price adjustments applied to a wide range of treatments are part of a regular periodic process, similar to those carried out last year as well as in 2018 and 2019. However, these corrective measures remain insufficient to absorb the real cost of imported and distributed products.

Amira stated that the price increases are very moderate, amounting to only a few dinars for affected items. He clarified that the adjustments aim to partially alleviate the PCT's financial burden without significantly impacting citizens' purchasing power. He criticized alarmist reactions as stemming from a misunderstanding of pricing mechanisms and disinformation campaigns.

“

these increases remain very moderate and do not exceed a few dinars for the items concerned. He stresses that the approach aims above all to partially alleviate the financial burden of the PCT without heavily impacting the purchasing power of users.

The specialist stressed that restoring the PCT's financial equilibrium is directly linked to the country's health security. Despite the recent adjustments, medication prices in Tunisia remain among the most affordable globally, ensuring citizens' fundamental right to continuous care. This clarification follows a July 24, 2026, circular from the PCT announcing a minimal price increase for twelve drug references.

“

the restoration of the PCT's financial balances directly conditions the country's health security.