The Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmed Abdel-Wahab Al-Awadhi, has issued Ministerial Resolution No. 240 of 2025 to regulate the sale of medicines and medical products through self-service vending machines. This decision is part of the Ministry’s initiative to complete the legislative framework governing the private pharmaceutical sector and ensure compliance with strict health standards.
Under the new rules, private pharmacies can display and sell products listed in a prior ministerial resolution, provided they meet several strict conditions:
- Licensing: Pharmacies must hold a valid operating license and appoint a licensed pharmacist or technician to oversee the machines.
- Quality Control: Machines must maintain a temperature not exceeding 25∘C, ensure product containers are undamaged, and prohibit the sale of expired or unregistered medicines. Products must have a minimum shelf life of four months and adhere to Ministry-approved prices.
- Logistics: Each machine must be placed at least 100 meters apart, with a maximum of five machines per pharmacy.
Licenses are valid for one year and are renewable. Violators face penalties under Law No. 28 of 1996. The Ministry affirmed that this regulation will enhance drug accessibility while ensuring the safe and regulated dispensing of medicines in Kuwait.
