The National Healthcare Security Administration (NHSA) of China announced on Monday that it will spearhead an investigation into potential quality risks associated with government-procured medications, following concerns raised by medical experts in Shanghai during the recent “Two Sessions.”
The NHSA, in collaboration with health, industry, and drug regulatory authorities, will conduct the probe after several experts highlighted issues during the sessions. These experts expressed concerns about the quality and efficacy of certain drugs procured under the centralized purchasing system. In response, NHSA officials will visit Shanghai on Tuesday to consult with experts on drug procurement policies and the assurance of quality for select medicines.
The investigation, which focuses on collecting evidence regarding the clinical efficacy of centrally procured drugs, will rely on statistically significant clinical data. NHSA emphasized that the inquiry aims to strengthen the integrity of the centralized drug procurement system and safeguard public health. The administration reiterated its commitment to transparency and democratic oversight, underscoring the importance of gathering first-hand evidence from medical professionals regarding the effectiveness of these medications.
The concerns were raised during the 2025 local “Two Sessions,” where medical experts from Shanghai and Beijing, including prominent figures from the medical field, voiced worries about the inconsistent efficacy of some drugs under the centralized procurement system. Among the issues raised was the varying quality of certain commonly used medications, such as antibiotics, anesthetics, and laxatives. These experts noted that, despite these concerns, doctors have limited options when selecting drugs for clinical use.
Zheng Minhua, director of the General Surgery Department at Shanghai Ruijin Hospital, was among the key figures to submit a proposal signed by 19 other leading medical professionals and political advisors. The group called for immediate action to address the instability in drug efficacy, stressing the need for reform.
The centralized drug procurement program, introduced by NHSA in 2018, aims to reduce drug prices through bulk purchasing, making medications more affordable, particularly for low-income individuals. NHSA has welcomed input from healthcare professionals on issues related to drug prices and quality, acknowledging the importance of continuous oversight and improvement of the system.
As the investigation progresses, officials are expected to take further steps to ensure that the procurement process remains effective and that drug quality is consistently upheld.
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