Report of Healthcare Minister Vladimir Karanik

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Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko focused on prices for the import of medical equipment and drugs as he heard out a report of Healthcare Minister Vladimir Karanik on 12 March.

“The issue of prices and import of medical equipment and drugs was very important,” the president said.

In his words, prices for the import of part of drugs and medical equipment were too high before. “It was necessary to normalize those prices. Not everything should be driven by the market. Competition is a good thing, but we still need to be aware of the minimum and maximum prices for certain equipment, especially expensive equipment. We know them, they are clear. And we should do our best to try to work below these prices. Did you manage that?” Aleksandr Lukashenko wondered.

The head of state also asked if there are any problems and if any interference on his part is needed.

“As far as prices for medical equipment are concerned, your perception that they were not optimal is right, we have confirmations,” Vladimir Karanik said. “We worked hard to create a transparent system of purchases, improve marketing schemes and facilitate work with manufacturers to enable direct access to our markets for them.”