India Considering Compulsory Licensing for Drugs, Seeking Input on Improving Drug Availability

India’s Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion is seeking input on options to improve drug availability in the country, including extending the use of compulsory licenses (CLs) beyond public health emergencies. According to one idea being floated by the government, a CL could be issued “whenever the demand for a critical drug is not being met.” Compulsory licensing allows third parties to manufacture patented medicines without the consent of the patent holder and is generally limited to cases of national emergency, extreme urgency and public noncommercial use.
International Pharmaceutical Regulatory Monitor