Turkey investigates Israeli drug giant Teva for blocking rivals

Turkey's Competition Authority has launched an investigation into Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., suspecting the Israeli company of violating local laws and obstructing competitors in the pharmaceutical market. The probe, initiated after a preliminary investigation by the Turkish state-run news agency Anadolu, centers on allegations that Teva acted to restrict competition, particularly in the generic drugs sector.

Investigators are examining whether Teva employed strategic use of patent procedures and potentially misled health authorities in Ankara regarding the efficacy and safety of certain products. The investigation targets Teva International, its European subsidiary, and its Turkish branch to determine the extent of any legal violations. Media outlets aligned with the Turkish government have highlighted the investigation's focus on actions that could prevent competitors from entering the market.

Specifically, the probe is scrutinizing Teva's patent applications for drug production methods and dosages. Concerns include whether applications were filed after patent protection expired or if derivative cancellation methods were used in ways that could disadvantage rival companies. For now, the investigation has not resulted in any sanctions against the company operating within Turkey.

Teva stated that the investigation concerns a past antitrust issue. The company remains one of the few Israeli firms still active in Turkey, despite a trade embargo. Teva operates its headquarters in Istanbul and manages a commercial center for drug marketing, alongside local collaborations aimed at improving healthcare access.

“

The Turkish Competition Authority's investigation concerns a past antitrust issue.