After months of advocacy by LIMS, the Ministry of Health finally lifted subsidies on infant formula. LIMS congratulated the ministry for this important decision as it stops the shortage of infant formula and makes it available once again in Lebanon. Subsidies were supposed to keep the price low, but in reality, led to smuggling of infant formula from Lebanon to be sold at the market price in neighboring countries.

LIMS stated that lifting subsidies on baby formula is the first step. Then, lifting subsidies on cancer and hard-to-treat drugs should be next, to help those who cannot access treatment. Subsidies has led to shortages and higher prices in the black market—where the products’ quality is unknown. Drugs are often smuggled abroad or disappear, making it difficult for patients to access treatment. Residents resort to the black market to buy expensive medication because no other choice remains. The subsidies program for drugs gave an advantage to smugglers and a huge disadvantage to consumers. This policy wasted money, increased Lebanon losses of foreign exchange reserves, and the funds did not get to the intended recipients.

LIMS Media Interviews:

• ‘People lose either way’: Lebanon’s government ends infant formula subsidy. January 10, 2023: The National News, Article EN
• Do Critical Illness Drugs Follow The Example Of Infant Milk, Reaching Patients? January 17, 2023: Newsfolio, Article AR