Chemists strike against e-pharmacies as 2018 rules lapse, leaving PharmEasy in regulatory limbo
AIOCD, representing 12 lakh chemists, downed shutters demanding a level playing field against deep-discounting online pharmacies. PharmEasy defends its ABDM-integrated marketplace, while IMA flags safety concerns. The lapsed 2018 e-pharmacy notification has left India's fast-growing online drug retail channel without a clear rulebook.
Indian chemists struck work protesting online pharmacies' deep discounting and regulatory gaps. AIOCD, representing 12 lakh chemists, demands level playing field; PharmEasy defends ABDM-integrated marketplace model. Lapsed 2018 e-pharmacy notification leaves sector in regulatory limbo amid IMA concerns.
Why this matters
Adds regulatory pressure on PharmEasy following parent API Holdings' withdrawal of its Rs 6,250 cr IPO and pivot to a rights issue from Prosus, TPG and Temasek for growth funding.
Retail-company signals steady at 1,498 over the last 90 days.