The price for the same medicine can differ twofold in different pharmacies. The Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade explained why
In Belarus, prices for the same medicine can vary significantly in different pharmacies. A representative of the Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade, during a broadcast on the "Belarus 1" TV channel, explained that such a difference does not necessarily indicate violations.
Illustrative image. Photo: Lookby.media
Anatol Yurastau, Head of the Social Sphere and Services Department at the Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade, said that the agency's specialists monthly analyze medicine prices through online services, including Tabletka.by and 103.by.
According to him, violations are rarely found during inspections.
Journalists cited an example of one drug, the cost of which varied from 40 to 69 rubles in different pharmacies in Minsk.
The ministry representative acknowledged that such a difference, reaching almost twofold, is indeed possible. This can be due to different supply times, exchange rate fluctuations, the batch of goods, and the trade markup set by the pharmacy.
If a buyer has doubts about a sharp or unjustified price increase for specific medicines, they can contact the Ministry of Antimonopoly Regulation and Trade. Specialists will check the information and, if necessary, assess the pricing.