Liberals welcomed the final agreement on the Critical Medicines Act, a long-awaited EU regulation aimed at tackling medicine shortages and strengthening Europe’s health security.
The legislation is designed to ensure life-saving medicines are available when and where they are needed, while reducing the EU’s dependence on external suppliers. It supports investment in European pharmaceutical production, including essential and niche medicines, and strengthens cooperation between member states on procurement to improve access and pricing.
The agreement addresses a long-standing vulnerability in the EU’s healthcare system by strengthening supply chains for critical medicines and improving Europe’s ability to respond to future shortages.
Vlad Vasile-Voiculescu MEP (USR, RO) Renew Europe Shadow Rapporteur and coordinator of the European Parliament’s Public Health Committee said:
“This agreement is a historic step towards making sure Europeans can access the medicines they need, when they need them. We have learned from recent crises that no Member State can face shortages alone. By strengthening cooperation, and supporting production in Europe, we are building a stronger and more secure European Health Union for all citizens.”
The legislation is seen as a key step towards a more resilient European Health Union, with liberals arguing it strengthens both public health and Europe’s economic security. Renew Europe has consistently pushed for greater preparedness and access to medicines across all Member States.