Indian Generics Press For Compulsory Licenses Concerns Brand Makers
This article was originally published in PharmAsia News
Executive Summary
Multinational drug makers are voicing concerns about moves in India to impose compulsory licenses that would free others, mainly Indian manufacturers, to make generic copies of their drugs. Indian generics makers are looking into the possibility of using World Trade Organization provisions that allow patents to be overridden during medical emergencies or when cheaper drugs can be exported to least-developed nations. The Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights provision allows patent holders to receive "adequate remuneration." Natco Pharma already has requested compulsory licenses on two cancer drugs, a move that could become part of a trend. A Pfizer official says such a move "would be a clear disregard of Indian patent laws." (Click here for more