KATHMANDU: Medicine Importers Association of Nepal has warned that it would completely halt the import of drugs if the government failed to address its demands by May 22.

Claiming that the imported drugs are relatively cheaper and standard than those manufactured at home, the Association has urged the government not to clip on the business of drug importers.

The Council of Ministers on May 9 had decided to ban the import of 34 varieties of drugs in a bid to promote the domestic products.

The Association also sought the determination of drug prices before enforcing its May 22 decision.

A charter of 15-point demand put forth by the Association before the Department of Drug Administration, the Ministry of Health, includes the facilitation from the government in the import and export of medicines, pricing of drugs before implementing the May 22 decision and simplification in the registration process of new companies.

According to Association General Secretary Pawan Acharya, it imports 150-200 varieties of medicines from various countries. Of them, over 90 types are in more demand in the country.

The Association claims that the drugs it imports meet the World Health Organisation standard and other international standards set by the US, UK and the European Union.

Meanwhile, the Association staged a sit-in for two hours before the DDA today in its bid to exert pressure on the government body to address its demands.