Justice, SEC Cast Wide Net as Feds Investigate Big Pharma’s Foreign Activities

As pharmaceutical companies expand their reach globally, the long arm of the U.S. justice and regulatory systems is advancing as well. Merck and SciClone said they have been contacted by the Justice Department and the SEC in a probe of illegal payments to foreign officials under the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Violations can include cash, gifts, meals, speaking fees or honoraria to foreign officials — including doctors, pharmacists, health ministry and custom officials — in exchange for favorable actions on a drug or device.
Drug Industry Daily