Aspen’s response to the reported Competition Commission investigation

Durban – Media reports that the Competition Commission has decided to take up the Democratic Alliance’s request to investigate the alleged anti-competitive conduct of Aspen Pharmacare (“Aspen”) in South Africa, in its preliminary investigation into the pharmaceutical sector, has reference.

Aspen welcomes the process and the opportunity to categorically set aside such allegations of anti-competitive behavior.  Aspen is committed to full and constructive engagement with the Competition Commission should it wish to pursue such an investigation.

It is worth noting that pharmaceutical prices are approved by the Department of Health in terms of the Single Exit Price regulatory framework which establishes a universal fixed price for each pharmaceutical product.  Aspen has not increased pricing of its products outside of this regulatory framework.