Commission closes infringement proceedings against Poland, Romania and Slovakia

The European Commission has decided to close its infringement procedures and the treatment of complaints in the area of parallel trade of medicines for human use against Poland, Romania and Slovakia.

From the start, the Juncker Commission has been focusing on its political priorites and pursuing them vigorously. This political approach is also reflected in the Commission's handling of infringement cases. The Communication " EU law: Better results through better application" sets out the Commission's approach to prioritizing cases in a strategic manner, carefully weighing the various public and private interests involved.

Parallel imports and exports of medicinal products is a lawful form of trade within the Single Market. Member states may, however, in certain cases restrict parallel trade, as long as the measures are justified, reasonable and proportionate to ensure a legitimate public interest, for example, to ensure an adequate and continuous supply of pharmaceuticals to the population.