Germany Warns of Drug Shortage Risks as Iran War Disrupts Supply Chains
Pharmaceutical Industry Raises Concerns Over Growing Pressure
Berlin
Germany’s pharmaceutical industry has warned of increasing risks to medicine supplies as the conflict in Iran continues to disrupt global supply chains.
Raw Material Shortages Strain Production
According to a report by BILD, Dorothee Brakmann, CEO of Pharma Deutschland, said the ongoing conflict is already affecting the sector. She explained that many medicines and their packaging depend on raw materials sourced from the region.
In addition, a shortage of helium—an essential component in certain production processes—could slow manufacturing. At the same time, rising transport and material costs are putting further pressure on supply chains.
As a result, shortages of key raw materials have begun to affect production. Without these materials, companies cannot manufacture medicines at full capacity, and in some cases, production may stop entirely.
Experts Warn of Rising Risks
Meanwhile, health economist David Matusiewicz highlighted the broader impact of the conflict. He noted that disruptions linked to Iran are already influencing global pharmaceutical supply networks.
Although there is no immediate threat of widespread shortages, he warned that risks are increasing. Over time, the situation could lead to delivery delays, higher prices, and temporary shortages of certain medicines.
Critical Medicines Could Be Affected
The report also pointed out that temperature-sensitive drugs are especially vulnerable. These include cancer treatments, advanced biologic medicines for autoimmune diseases, and other products that require strict cold storage conditions.
Moreover, essential emergency medicines such as insulin could become harder to access if supply disruptions continue.
Government Monitoring the Situation
Earlier, German Health Minister Nina Warken acknowledged the potential risks to medicine supplies. While she confirmed that there is no immediate danger, she stressed that many pharmaceutical shipments pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making them vulnerable to disruptions caused by the conflict.
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