French pharmacists have escalated their protests following the adoption of a decree reforming drug pricing, which they argue threatens the economic viability of many pharmacies. The decree, published in the Journal Officiel on July 26, 2026, introduces new mechanisms for setting prices of reimbursable medicines, aiming to reduce public health spending.
The Union of Community Pharmacists' Unions (USPO) and the Federation of Pharmaceutical Unions of France (FSPF) have called for a strike and closure of pharmacies on August 1, 2026. They claim the reform could lead to a 15% drop in their margins on generic drugs, potentially forcing hundreds of independent pharmacies to close.
Health Minister Catherine Vautrin defended the decree, stating it is designed to ensure fair pricing for patients and the healthcare system while maintaining access to medicines. She emphasized that negotiations with pharmacists would continue to address their concerns.
Pharmacists argue that the reform was adopted without sufficient consultation and that it disproportionately affects small, rural pharmacies. They demand a revision of the decree to include measures that protect pharmacy profitability and ensure the sustainability of the pharmaceutical network.
The government has not yet responded to the strike call, but the dispute highlights ongoing tensions between cost-containment efforts and the needs of healthcare providers in France.
