Sahpra seeks more BEE

HEALTH CARE: LICENCES THREATENED AS IT WANTS MORE COMPLIANCE

It's similar to requirements for other sectors.

After regulators in the financial services and property sector this year announced plans to require African Health broadbased black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) compliance as a prerequisite for licences, government has now turned its attention to health care.

The South Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra), which regulates health products - including manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors has published a new policy that makes it mandatory for applicants to submit BEE certificates when applying for a licence.

Once this is in place (phase one of the policy), Sahpra will refuse the issuing and/or renewal of licences unless certain BEE levels are reached (phase two).

The authority's draft policy was published last year. Sahpra has circulated a revised policy and requested submissions from stakeholders before 9 September.

If approved in its current form, the policy will prohibit the supply of health products and medical equipment, including medicines, by players who do not meet B-BBEE requirements.