HOME > MARKETS > ECONOMY NEWS
  ECONOMY NEWS
ECONOMY
NPPA caps margins of 137 non-scheduled anti-cancer formulations at 30%
Oct-19-2026

The drug pricing regulator - National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has capped trade margins on 137 non-scheduled anti-cancer formulations at 30%. The retailers and hospitals must charge reduced rates from November 9, 2026 and display the revised prices in their pharmacies. Hospitals, which directly procure a substantial share of oncology medicines, are also required to prominently exhibit the new rates on their websites and will bear direct responsibility for ensuring the revised prices are implemented on the ground.  

The Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers has noted that the move is expected to slash retail prices of these critical life-saving medicines by up to 70% depending on their current price structures. To ensure strict adherence, state drug controllers have been directed to enforce compliance across manufacturers, dealers, retailers, hospitals, and medical institutions. Besides, consumers can verify and check the updated drug rates through the NPPA website and the 'Pharma Sahi Daam' mobile app.

NPPA has emphasized that the rationalisation seeks to curb excessive margins in the distribution and retail channels without denting legitimate manufacturing revenues or causing artificial shortages. Further, pharmaceutical companies have been directed to maintain their current production and supply levels for the notified formulations to guarantee uninterrupted and timely access to vital medicines for patients across the country.

  RELATED NEWS >>