Chemists demand fair competition in pharma market amid online sales concerns
The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) has demanded a level playing field, citing concerns over predatory pricing and the unregulated expansion of online medicine sales. They allege that e-commerce platforms are misusing emergency-era regulations for doorstep delivery.
Why it matters
The conflict between traditional brick-and-mortar pharmacies and quick-commerce platforms is a significant economic issue affecting the retail pharmaceutical sector.
The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) on Sunday (July 19, 2026) demanded that the government ensure an equitable ecosystem for all the players to sustain in the market by ensuring a level playing field.
At its sixth national-level executive committee meeting conducted in Tirupati on Sunday, AIOCD president J.S. Shinde expressed serious displeasure over the unhealthy practices prevailing in the market, especially with the advent of online sale of pharmaceutical products.
“Certain quick commerce and e-commerce platforms were allegedly misusing the provision of the Gazette Notification relating to doorstep delivery of medicines issued during the emergency time. AIOCD has already brought these concerns to the attention of the concerned Ministers and government authorities and has requested appropriate corrective measures,” he said.
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