The Union Budget 2025-26 has waived customs duties on expensive cancer and rare disease medications. While this is a positive step, experts warn that it offers only temporary relief. They argue that eliminating customs duties does not address the underlying issue of patent monopolies. Imported medicines typically face a 10% customs duty, though some qualify for 5% or nil concessional rates. While the waiver reduces costs, it does not resolve the affordability challenge of patented drugs.
For instance, a spinal muscular atrophy drug costs ₹6 lakh per bottle. Even with manufacturer’s discounts, the price remains exorbitant at ₹2 lakh. A patient weighing over 20 kg requires one bottle every 12 days, amounting to ₹1.8 crore annually or ₹61.15 lakh after discounts. In contrast, a generic version of the drug in India could cost just ₹3,024 per year. Experts advocate for increased local drug…
