In a move aimed at enhancing transparency and protecting consumers, the Kuwaiti Ministry of Health has issued a new ministerial decision, No. 9 of 2025, which establishes comprehensive guidelines and regulations for organizing medical advertisements in pharmaceutical centers and sales outlets in the private sector. This decision reflects the Ministry's commitment to ensuring accurate and scientifically-based information in health-related advertisements.
Objectives of the New Decision
The decision seeks to curb misleading advertisements that could jeopardize consumer health or make unrealistic promises. It also aims to regulate the use of traditional and modern media for promoting medical and health products while ensuring compliance with relevant health standards and laws.
Comprehensive Definitions
The decision provides precise definitions for pharmaceutical centers, including pharmacies, warehouses, drug factories, and scientific offices. It also extends to include licensed sales outlets displaying and selling dietary supplements, health products, or veterinary medicines. These definitions aim to clarify the entities to which these regulations apply, ensuring the decision's inclusivity.
Strict Advertisement Regulations
Any media material published to promote health products is considered an advertisement, whether it is paid or unpaid. The decision mandates all advertisers to obtain prior authorization from the Drug Inspection Department before publishing any advertisement. It also prohibits the use of misleading terms such as "the best" or "the latest," and bans filming patients or consumers inside pharmaceutical centers for any advertising purposes.
Ensuring Credibility in Content
The decision emphasizes the importance of presenting accurate and transparent information in advertisements. It aims to prevent deception by imposing restrictions on the use of titles or phrases that may mislead the public. Among the stipulated conditions, advertisers must adhere to professional and scientific standards when drafting content.
Deterrent Penalties
The decision does not overlook specifying penalties for violators. Sanctions outlined in the laws governing the pharmacy profession and drug circulation will be applied, including administrative and criminal penalties, depending on the severity of the violation.
Importance of the Decision for Consumers and Society
This decision is not just a regulatory measure but a necessity to protect individuals' health and safety. Misleading advertisements could lead to the use of inappropriate or unsafe products, endangering consumers' lives. On the other hand, the decision enhances public trust in health and pharmaceutical institutions and contributes to creating a more transparent environment.
Conclusion
Ministerial Decision No. 9 of 2025 represents a pivotal step towards organizing the medical advertising sector in Kuwait. With the implementation of these regulations, the Ministry of Health will be able to shield consumers from unprofessional practices and enhance the quality of health services in the country. This decision serves as a model for the region, reaffirming Kuwait's commitment to achieving the highest standards of public health and safety.