COVID-19: India partially lifts ban on export of hydroxychloroquine

India has partially eased restrictions on the export of anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol, cited by some as key to the fight against COVID-19. The nation is set to fulfill existing orders and to meet the needs of neighbouring countries. The development comes after US President Donald Trump called up PM Modi to export the drug to aid America’s fight against COVID-19.

Trump on Monday said he was unaware that the export of hydroxychloroquine was banned by India and added that he didn’t “like that decision”.

The Central Government will following the decision, clear the existing orders immediately on humanitarian grounds. The government will not ban but restrict the export of hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol depending on the availability of stock after meeting domestic requirements.

Anurag Srivastava, Spokesperson, Ministry of External Affairs said S the Indian government’s first obligation was to ensure that there are adequate stocks of medicines for the requirement of our own people.

He further added that, “In view of the humanitarian aspects of the pandemic, it has been decided that India would license paracetamol and HCQ in appropriate quantities to all our neighbouring countries who are dependent on our capabilities. We will also be supplying these essential drugs to some nations who have been particularly badly affected by the pandemic. We would, therefore, discourage any speculation in this regard or any attempts to politicize the matter.”

India, the largest producer of hydroxychloroquine, initially banned exports of the drug on March 25 to ensure adequate domestic supplies. The government had put a blanket ban on all these medicines, including hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol, on 4 April.

Also Read: COVID-19 Pandemic: Donald Trump Hints At Retaliation If India Doesn’t Send Hydroxychloroquine