Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has stated that the ongoing issue of medicine shortages in the Maldives is being addressed through a series of comprehensive reforms initiated by the Government.

Speaking at a press conference highlighting the Ministry’s recent developments, Minister Nazim acknowledged that the Government had received complaints from the public regarding difficulties in accessing some healthcare services, particularly with the ongoing changes to the system. However, he noted that tangible results are now beginning to emerge as a result of the steps taken.

Among the key reforms, the Minister said efforts are underway to resolve issues related to the price and quality of medicines sold in the country. He added that the Government is working to strengthen the governance structure of State Trading Organisation (STO)—the country’s largest pharmaceutical importer—by increasing staffing, upskilling employees, and implementing standard operating procedures (SOPs).

Minister Nazim also highlighted several priority areas, including reforming the Aasandha prescription portal, developing national treatment guidelines, and enhancing the Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) systems. Additional training is also being provided to pharmacists under STO to ensure better service delivery.

The Government’s immediate target, according to the Ministry, is to ensure that all essential medicines are available in pharmacies nationwide by May this year.

In his Presidential Address at the opening of Parliament for 2025, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to reforming the Aasandha scheme, with a focus on making it more equitable, efficient, and accessible to all Maldivians.