STO has begun the process of transferring its nationwide pharmacy network to the State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Corporation Limited, marking a major structural shift in how pharmaceutical services are managed in the Maldives.
According to STO, the transition is already underway and will be carried out in phases, with the full transfer expected to be completed by the 15th of next month. The move will see more than 190 pharmacies brought under the newly established government pharmaceutical company, which is 100 percent state-owned.
The State Pharmaceutical and Medical Supply Corporation Limited was established on September 9 last year, under the powers granted to the President by Section 15 of the Companies Act. The company was formed with a mandate to strengthen the national supply of medicines and medical products through large-scale imports and improved distribution across the country.
Government officials have said the transfer is part of broader efforts to address long-standing challenges in accessing medicines, including shortages and limited availability of approved drugs. Authorities believe consolidating pharmacy operations under a dedicated pharmaceutical body will improve coordination and efficiency in the supply chain.
As part of these reforms, the government has also indicated plans to expand the list of approved medicines, increase the range of essential drugs, and further strengthen supply mechanisms to ensure more consistent availability nationwide. Officials say measures already taken have begun to ease pressure on the system, delivering noticeable progress in addressing medicine-related concerns.
The transfer of STO pharmacies is expected to play a key role in reinforcing these efforts, as the government continues work aimed at ensuring reliable, affordable, and timely access to medicines for the public.
