Importance of Opening Pharmacy Capital in Morocco
In a recent statement, Ahmed Rahou, the President of the Competition Council, clarified that the proposed initiatives regarding the opening of pharmacy capital to investors are not intended to undermine pharmacists; rather, they aim to enhance the overall system. This assertion was made amidst ongoing discussions in Morocco concerning the future of the pharmaceutical profession and the concerns raised by the Competition Council's opinions regarding the market's dynamics.
During a seminar held on March 10, Rahou emphasized that the solutions suggested by certain parties, such as closing educational programs or providing direct support to specific pharmacies, are ineffective and do not align with the council's stance. He pointed out that closing the market tends to create monopolistic conditions, allowing larger pharmacists to dominate smaller ones. Rahou further stated, “If this is acceptable to all stakeholders and citizens, we have no issue; we have merely presented our opinion.” He underscored the need for open dialogue within society and the impossibility of silencing diverse perspectives on a sector that faces numerous challenges.
Challenges Facing Pharmacists and the Need for Investment
Rahou also indicated that the council has not encountered alternative proposals beyond their own, and to date, the council has offered solutions that could be effective to varying degrees. He expressed concern that the profession is heading towards a crisis, noting that there are approximately 5,000 to 6,000 pharmacists in training and questioning their future prospects.
He highlighted that graduates, who are members of the public, currently face two options in the existing climate: either open a pharmacy in an unprofitable location, which may lead to bankruptcy, or change their profession after seven years of training. Rahou advocated for the opening of pharmacy capital to investors, noting that this is not a novel idea from the council but rather a reflection of observations from practices in other countries, including France, whose model has begun to evolve.
Moreover, Rahou discussed the current landscape, indicating that there are around 14,000 pharmacists in Morocco, with many approaching retirement or facing other life changes. He questioned the rationale behind denying someone the opportunity to purchase a pharmacy with the support of an investment fund, asking, “By what right do we say no? By what right do we insist that if you want to open a pharmacy, the funds must come from your own pocket?” He posed further inquiries regarding the traditional expectation that a pharmacist should pass down their business to their children, emphasizing the need for adaptation in the face of changing economic realities.
As reported by thevoice.ma.
