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MPs are finding the number of expatriates working in the pharmacy sector and owning outlets in the kingdom a bitter pill to swallow and want more Bahrainis dealing with prescriptions and handing out medicine.
And they also want to limit the types of products on sale in the outlets.
Legislators yesterday unanimously approved an urgent proposal that calls for ownership of all pharmacies to be restricted to citizens alone.
The proposal was submitted by five MPs led by Strategic Thinking Bloc spokesman Khalid Bu Onk, who had to leave the session early due to illness.
Speaking on behalf of the signatories, MP Mohammed Al Maarifi said this proposal is about ensuring the effective implementation of Article (27) of Decree-Law No 18 of 1997 which MPs interpret as restricting the granting of all pharmacy licences to citizens and Bahraini-owned companies at the same time as allowing a broader ‘ownership by the private sector’.
In addition, the proposal calls for pharmacies to only sell medications rather than also having cosmetic and energy products available … and calls on the relevant authorities to intensify periodic inspections and verify that those working in the pharmaceutical sector meet all licensing and professional requirements.
Mr Al Maarifi stressed that pharmacies were not ‘ordinary commercial outlets but essential health facilities’. “Public pharmacies deal directly with medicines and patient safety,” he said. “This requires strict professional oversight, continuous monitoring and full compliance with legal and scientific standards.”
Another key objective is to increase Bahrainisation in the pharmacy sector. “Supporting Bahraini professionals in pharmacy strengthens our healthcare system from within,” he added. “It ensures sustainability, accountability and long-term sector growth.”
MPs across the chamber backed the initiative, describing it as a necessary step to reinforce regulatory compliance and uphold public interest.
The Cabinet is now expected to study the proposal and respond with its recommendations.
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