Trade Ministry warns Belarusians against buying drugs online

Belarus Ministry of Trade has warned citizens against buying medicines online. The issue was raised at a recent meeting held in Minsk by representatives of the Ministry of Trade, the Ministry of Taxes and Duties, Ministry of Health, the media and the owners of a number of websites. It is reported that the purpose of the event was to prevent  possible offenses in drug sales and advertising of such activities.

According to the press service of the Ministry of Trade, the Ministry of Health has recorded "numerous instances" of drugs sold over the Internet, including those unregistered and banned in our country, purchased abroad and those with broken packaging. It is noted that the some of the advertised drugs can be administered by a doctor after tests. According to the Ministry of Trade, this is evidence of a violation of many legal norms.

Officials say that if Belarusians are buying drugs over the Internet, their health safety cannot be guaranteed. The meeting focused on the need for sites to put in place technical restrictions over advertisements from individuals selling drugs. Also, there should be moderation of such ads. The work in this direction has already begun.

The report of the Trade Ministry noted that individuals who conduct and advertise illegal activity which may harm the health of people may face administrative penalty - a fine from 900 thousand to 5.4 million rubles.

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