plus de 1500 infractions relatives à des activités médicales exercées par des non-professionnels
Summary of Regulatory Actions Against Illicit Medical Practices in Algeria
In Algeria, the Ministry of Domestic Commerce and Market Regulation has taken significant steps to combat illegal medical and paramedical practices, particularly in beauty salons, wellness centers, and hairdressing establishments. Recent enforcement actions have revealed over 1,500 commercial violations committed by non-professionals engaging in unauthorized medical activities.
Campaign Initiation and Enforcement Actions
Ahmed Mokrani, the director of regulatory activities at the ministry, announced that a recent campaign aimed at curtailing illegal medical practices has led to extensive inspections. As part of these efforts, 9,191 interventions were conducted, resulting in the identification of 1,595 violations, the issuance of 1,514 judicial reports, and the closure of 110 establishments.
These violations primarily involve untrained individuals using surgical tools and unauthorized medical devices. Many of these operations also included unregistered medications, ointments, and expired products. Mokrani urged all merchants to adhere strictly to the activities outlined in their commercial registrations.
Product Seizures and Compliance Requirements
The ministry’s enforcement actions have yielded significant results, with authorities seizing over 2.4 tonnes of various beauty and wellness products, valued at approximately 8.5 million Algerian Dinars. Mokrani emphasized the urgent need to curb advertisements on social media that promote illegal commercial activities related to aesthetics and personal care.
In an effort to improve regulatory oversight, the ministry is establishing two new bodies within its organizational structure. One will focus on regulating e-commerce, while the other will concentrate on developing mechanisms for electronic control measures.
Market Stabilization Campaign and Price Issues
In addition to its regulatory work, the ministry has initiated a campaign to stabilize prices for certain essential products, such as coffee and sheep meat. This initiative aims to address unjustified price hikes, particularly given the significant financial resources the government allocates to subsidize these staple goods.
So far, the state has spent approximately 4.28 billion Dinars on subsidies for coffee prices to bridge the gap between international market rates and local prices. The ministry is currently reviewing 50 new subsidy requests from importers.
Coordination with Agricultural Sector
To tackle rising agricultural product prices, Mokrani reported ongoing collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture. This initiative focuses on reorganizing marketing operations across various sectors to enhance traceability from farmers to retailers. The goal is to prevent unjustified price increases and to ensure compliance with quality standards.
Conclusion
The regulatory measures undertaken by Algeria’s Ministry signify a robust approach to controlling illegal medical practices and stabilizing market prices. By targeting unregulated sectors, enhancing enforcement mechanisms, and fostering ministerial collaboration, the government aims to create a safer and more transparent environment for both consumers and legitimate businesses.
