Swissmed informs about Control Campaign against illegal Trading in Medicinal Products

The flourishing illegal online trade in medicinal products poses a serious threat: it not only endangers the health of consumers but also undermines the safety and regulation of the pharmaceutical supply chain. To address this issue, Swissmedic, the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS) and Swiss Sport Integrity (SSI) participated in an international campaign, coordinated with Europol, to inspect over 1,000 suspicious postal shipments.

According to a Swissmedic press release dated 18 December 2024, approximately one-quarter of the inspected shipments contained illegal medicinal products or doping agents. A total of 246 packages were seized, containing products such as erectile stimulants and narcotics. Over 90% of the confiscated items originated from India, often shipped through concealed routes.

These findings highlight the critical importance of international cooperation in combating the illegal trade in medicinal products. At the same time, they draw attention to the significant health risks and the support of criminal networks associated with the purchase of such products.

The insights gained from the inspections have been shared with Europol to further intensify international efforts against the illegal trade and to strengthen the safety of the pharmaceutical supply chain.