PARALLEL IMPORTATION UK

In the UK, parallel importation is generally legal, but it is subject to certain regulations:

Trade Marks and Patents: Parallel importation is allowed as long as it does not infringe on trade marks or patents. The products must not violate the intellectual property rights of the brand owner.

Consumer Protection: Products imported through parallel channels must still comply with UK consumer protection laws. This means they should be safe, of good quality, and legally sourced.

Customs and Duties: Parallel imports are subject to customs regulations and duties. You need to ensure that all necessary paperwork and taxes are handled correctly.

Warranty and Support: Products obtained through parallel importation might not be covered by the official warranty or support services provided by the authorized distributor. This could be a potential risk for consumers.

Legal Regulations: Parallel importation must comply with UK and EU trade laws. Since Brexit, the trading regulations between the EU and the UK have changed, so it's essential to stay updated with current legal requirements.

If you plan to engage in parallel importation, it is advisable to consult with legal and trade experts to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations.

Is parallel import legal in the UK?

Yes, parallel importation is generally legal in the UK. Here’s a summary of how it works and the key considerations:

Trade Marks and Intellectual Property: Parallel imports are permissible as long as they do not infringe on trade mark or intellectual property rights. The products must be sourced legally and not counterfeit or pirated.

Consumer Protection: Imported products must comply with UK consumer protection laws. This includes ensuring the products are safe, meet quality standards, and are legally sold.

Customs and Duties: Parallel imports are subject to customs regulations and import duties. Proper documentation and payment of any required taxes are necessary to import goods.

Warranties and Support: Products imported via parallel channels may not be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty or support services offered by official distributors. This can be a consideration for consumers and businesses.

Legal Framework: UK laws, including those that were influenced by EU regulations before Brexit, govern parallel importation. It’s important to stay informed about any changes in regulations due to Brexit or other legal updates.

If you are considering engaging in parallel importation, it's wise to consult legal experts or trade consultants to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and avoid potential issues.

What is a parallel import medicine in the UK?

In the UK, a parallel import medicine refers to a pharmaceutical product that is legally imported from another country within the European Economic Area (EEA) or beyond, bypassing the official UK distribution channels. Here are key points about parallel import medicines:

Legality: Parallel import medicines are legal in the UK as long as they comply with UK regulations. They must be sourced legally and adhere to the same safety and efficacy standards as medicines distributed through official channels.

Regulation: These medicines are regulated by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Importers must ensure that the medicines meet UK safety and quality standards and are correctly labeled for the UK market.

Licensing: Parallel importers must hold a license issued by the MHRA, which allows them to import and distribute medicines in the UK. They must also ensure that the medicines are authorized for sale in the UK, even if they were originally marketed elsewhere.

Labeling: Medicines imported in this way must have appropriate labeling for the UK market, including English language instructions, patient information leaflets, and compliance with UK packaging regulations.

Cost: Parallel import medicines are often priced lower than those distributed through official channels due to price differences in different markets. This can provide cost savings for consumers and healthcare providers.

Availability: Parallel importation can help address shortages of specific medicines in the UK by providing alternative sources.

It’s important for patients and healthcare professionals to ensure that parallel import medicines are obtained from reputable sources and meet all necessary regulatory requirements.