European NGOs back Indian generic drugs

Renowned European NGOs, including Oxfam and Medecins Sans Frontieres, have thrown their weight behind the Indian generic drug industry, whose products have been seized by authorities in Europe alleging violation of patents.

"If the current EU trade policy remains, it will have a disastrous impact on the lives of millions... The Indian generic medicines industry, which exports two-thirds of its production to developing countries, could face restrictions," a joint declaration by Oxfam, Health Action International and Medicins Sans Frontieres said here.

The generic drugs are those on which the patents have lapsed and can be manufactured by anyone.

In his recent visit to New Delhi, Director General of Geneva-based World Intellectual Property Francis Gurry corroborated the point that generic drugs do not violate any patents.

Over the last one year, European authorities have seized over 18 generic consignments of Indian companies en route Latin America and Africa, alleging violation of patents.

The issue has repeatedly been taken up by the Commerce Ministry with the European authorities.