health
May 5, 2026
Colombia depends on imported medicines for more than 70%: risks to health sovereignty alerted
Third Latin American Pharmaceutical Forum in Bogotá. Photo: Asinfar
TL;DR
- Colombia imports over 70% of its medicines, creating vulnerability to international shocks.
- The Third Latin American Pharmaceutical Forum in Bogotá highlighted the risks of this dependency.
- Strengthening the local pharmaceutical industry is crucial for sustainability and national response to health emergencies.
- The government is pursuing "health sovereignty," aiming for self-sufficiency in medicines and health services.
- Reforms are proposed to address structural issues in the health system, including criticism of the EPS model and resource management.
- Increased spending on health is noted, but issues lie in resource management rather than lack of funds.