https://www.pharmabiz.com/NewsDetails.aspx?aid=166312&sid=1

DGTR issues revised list of 18 parties issued in ECH anti-dumping probe

Shardul Nautiyal, Mumbai Tuesday, February 13, 2024, 08:00 Hrs  [IST]

The Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR) has released a revised list of interested parties in the ongoing anti-dumping inquiry concerning epichlorohydrin (ECH) imports from Korea, Thailand and China. This is aimed at fostering transparency and inclusivity in the investigation process. The DGTR had extended the timeline up to November 30, 2023 for filing responses in the anti-dumping investigation. The DGTR's decision to revise the list comes following feedback received on the previously published notice dated November 3, 2023. ECH is used in pharmaceutical API and can be produced using propylene as well as using glycerine. Meghmani Finechem Limited had filed an application before the DGTR for initiation of an anti-dumping investigation concerning imports of ECH from Korea, Thailand and China. The applicant has alleged that dumping of imports of the subject goods originating in or exported from the subject countries has materially retarded the establishment of the domestic industry and has caused material injury to the domestic industry. The updated list encompasses a diverse range of entities representing various segments of the industry involved in the production, export, import, and utilization of epichlorohydrin. From domestic industries to government bodies, producers, exporters, importers, and users, the revised list seeks to provide a comprehensive representation of interests affected by the anti-dumping measures. Among the prominent parties listed are Meghmani Finechem Limited, which represents the domestic industry's interests, Royal Thai Government, which advocates for Thailand's trade concerns, AGC Vinythai Public Co. Ltd, producer or exporter from Thailand, importers or users like Cardolite Speciality Chemicals India LLP, Atul Limited, Hindustan Speciality Chemicals Limited, Grasim Industries Ltd, Hanwha Solutions Corporation, producer from Korea, Canko Marketing, Inc, exporter from Korea, Everlite Korea Co. Ltd, exporter from Korea, Minjin Corporation, exporter from Korea, Lotte Fine Chemical Co. Limited, exporter from Korea, Jiangsu Ruixiang Chemical Co., Ltd, producer or exporter from China, Ningbo Huanyang New Material Co., Ltd, producer, exporter from China, China Chlor-Alkali Industry Association, producer or exporter from China, Rishabh Metals and Chemicals Pvt. Ltd, importer or consumer, Sandeep Organics Pvt. Ltd, importer and Samsung C&T (Thailand) Company Limited, exporter from Thailand. Devender Singh, joint director general (foreign trade) at DGTR, emphasized the importance of active participation and cooperation from all stakeholders in the investigation process. Singh noted that the revision aims to ensure a robust and inclusive examination of the allegations surrounding epichlorohydrin imports, ultimately leading to informed decision-making by the authorities. The anti-dumping probe into epichlorohydrin imports reflects the government's commitment to upholding fair trade practices and safeguarding the interests of domestic industries. Stakeholders are urged to comply with the prescribed guidelines and actively engage in the investigative process to facilitate a fair and equitable resolution. As the investigation progresses, stakeholders can anticipate further updates and opportunities for engagement. The outcome of the probe will have significant ramifications for trade relations and industry dynamics, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts and adherence to regulatory procedures. In conclusion, the issuance of the revised parties list marks a pivotal step in the anti-dumping investigation, signaling the government's dedication to transparency and fairness in trade remedies.

 

Experts warn of urgent action to address confusion caused by identical drug names

Shardul Nautiyal, Mumbai Tuesday, February 13, 2024, 08:00 Hrs  [IST]

Healthcare experts in the country have raised serious concern about the widespread confusion caused by identical or similar drug names in India's healthcare system.   Urgent redressal is the need of the hour to prevent potential mishaps and ensure patient safety, according to Dr. Ishwar Gilada, a prominent infectious disease expert and secretary general of the Peoples Health Organisation-India (PHO). In addition to the alarming prevalence of identical drug names in India's healthcare system, experts are now highlighting another pressing issue, which is look-alike, sound-alike (LASA) drugs. These medications, despite having distinct purposes, share names that are phonetically and visually similar, posing significant risks to patient safety. Dr. Gilada highlighted the alarming consequences of drugs sharing identical names but serving entirely different purposes. He cited examples such as Linamac, used to treat diabetes in one form and as a treatment for multiple myeloma, a type of cancer, in another. Similarly, he underscored the dangers posed by medications like azidothiamidine, commonly known as AZT for HIV treatment, and azathioprine, also referred to as AZT, used as an immunosuppressive medication. "This issue of identical or similar drug names has long plagued the healthcare sector in India," Dr. Gilada emphasized. "While the onus lies with the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) to select distinct names for new formulations, it requires a collective effort from all stakeholders to mitigate risks and ensure patient safety," he explained. Dr. Gilada outlined several critical measures to address this pressing issue. Firstly, he emphasized the importance of standardized prescription practices, whereby doctors clearly indicate the diagnosis along with the prescribed medication and its active ingredient. Additionally, he stressed the need for rigorous training of pharmacists to recognize and mitigate risks associated with similar-sounding drugs. "By law, chemist shops must be owned by professional pharmacists, and their staff should undergo training," Dr. Gilada asserted. "Furthermore, cross-checking prescriptions with doctors before dispensing medication is crucial to prevent errors," he added. Despite the severity of the problem, Dr. Gilada expressed concern over the lack of reported data on medication errors related to identical drug names. He urged for greater attention from the government, pharmaceutical companies, and the healthcare sector to address this critical issue and implement comprehensive solutions. Dr. Gilada further underscored the importance of heightened vigilance in the healthcare sector to prevent medication errors. "LASA drugs such as metformin for diabetes, metoprolol for heart conditions, and metronidazole for amoebiasis, often referred to as Met, Meto, and Metro respectively, demand heightened attention due to their potential for confusion," he emphasized. To address this critical issue, most hospitals maintain lists of LASA drugs to facilitate accurate prescribing and dispensing practices. However, Dr. Gilada stressed the need for broader awareness and proactive measures across the healthcare continuum. "While awareness among healthcare professionals is crucial, it is equally important for patients to be vigilant and informed about their prescribed medications," Dr. Gilada emphasized. "Collaborative efforts involving regulatory bodies, pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers, and patients are essential to mitigate the risks associated with LASA drugs," he recommended. In conclusion, the prevalence of look-alike, sound-alike drugs pose a significant challenge to patient safety in India's healthcare system. Overall, addressing the problem of identical or similar drug names requires a multifaceted approach involving regulatory measures, improved healthcare practices, education, and collaboration across the healthcare sector.