Drug shortages remain a persistent challenge across the European Union (EU), with PGEU data showing 400–800 medicines in short supply in many countries between November 2024 and January 2025.
When national alternatives are unavailable, shortages can become critical, triggering EU-level intervention and putting pressure on patients and health systems.
According to a September European Commission report, root causes include supply chain vulnerabilities linked to offshore manufacturing and the inconsistent enforcement of companies’ obligations to maintain supply.
Proposed reforms include stronger monitoring and mandatory shortage reporting to the EMA, as well as an "EU-level stockpile."
However, uncoordinated “reshoring” and unilateral stockpiling done previously have worsened shortages elsewhere, underscoring the need for careful design and coordinated EU action.
So, what do industry players think will actually work? Manufacturing Chemist speaks to MM Pharma, Cold Chain Technologies and Testo Saveris to find out.
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