The State Trading Organisation (STO) has signed an agreement with HLL Lifecare Ltd, a government-owned company in India, to improve the availability of essential medicines in the Maldives.
The country has faced ongoing difficulties in maintaining a consistent supply of certain critical drugs, which has affected healthcare services. The new agreement is expected to offer a more reliable and affordable supply of pharmaceuticals through India’s Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP), a scheme that distributes low-cost generic medicines across India.
All imported medicines under this agreement are expected to meet World Health Organization standards and comply with Maldivian regulatory requirements.
HLL Lifecare, which operates under India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, has previously worked with STO during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company, established in 1966, manufactures a wide range of healthcare products including pharmaceuticals, contraceptives, and diagnostic kits. It also manages several hospital projects and retail pharmacy networks in India.
By linking with HLL, STO aims to reduce supply disruptions and ensure consistent access to essential medicines across the country.
