Health Ministry to regulate sale of medicines through vending machines
Move is part of efforts to modernize medicine circulation in the private sector while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
The Ministry of Health has issued Ministerial Resolution No. 240 of 2025, setting rules for displaying and selling medicines and medical products via vending machines at non-fixed locations.
This move is part of efforts to modernize medicine circulation in the private sector while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
Private pharmacies are now allowed to sell medicines and medical products included in the approved list of Ministerial Resolution No. 238 of 2025 through self-service vending machines, reports Al-Rai daily.
Pharmacies must comply with all Ministry of Health conditions and submit electronic applications via the designated Drug Inspection Department channel.
To operate these machines, pharmacies must hold a valid license, and a licensed pharmacist or pharmacy technician must oversee their operation. Required documents include proof of ownership or rental of the machines, their locations, and a special permit for medication delivery.
The resolution requires that the internal temperature of the machines not exceed 25°C, that packaging remains clean and undamaged, and that expired or unregistered products are never displayed.
Only medicines from the approved list may be sold, with a shelf life of at least four months, and prices must follow official Ministry-approved rates.
Each pharmacy may operate a maximum of five vending machines, with licenses valid for one year and renewable. If a machine ceases operation, the pharmacy must notify the Drug Inspection Department within one week. Machines must be placed at least 100 meters apart from each other.
The resolution also outlines penalties for violations, referencing Law No. 28 of 1996, which regulates the pharmacy profession and drug trade, alongside other administrative penalties under Ministry regulations.
This decision aims to expand convenient access to medicines while maintaining strict regulatory oversight, ensuring safety, quality, and proper control of pharmaceutical products.
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