Multinational pharmaceutical firms adaptation to the challenge of parallel importation of drugs in Kenya

Abstract

The study aimed at highlighting how multinational pharmaceutical firms are adapting to the challenge of parallel importation of drugs in Kenya. The pharmaceutical firms shall be able to use the research findings and recommendations to develop better strategic management practices. Scholars, academicians and researchers will find the study useful starting point for further research in various aspects of strategic management. The regulatory bodies, ministry of Health, Pharmacy and Poisons Board and Pharmaceutical Society of Kenya shall find this outcome useful in controlling or better management of pharmaceutical industry in Kenya. In order to meet these objectives, the pertinent primary and secondary data was collected. Primary data was obtained from personal interviews with the respondents. The same research interviewees have also been overseeing the implementation of these responses. Secondary data was collected from various sources. The data was then analyzed qualitatively. The study indicates that most respondents were confident that pharmaceutical companies do possess the necessary capability to adapt strategies that can enable it effectively match the changes in the environment in which it operates. The study also indicates that with liberalization of the pharmaceutical industry, the companies were able to source for cheaper drugs of good quality from various manufacturers who never had access to the Kenyan market before. This has seen the volume of business grow year after year. There was need by the government to provide quality and affordable healthcare to the population. This was in line with the strategic intent. This enabled pharmaceutical firms supply drugs at an affordable price through government tenders. Due to influx of pharmaceutical firms after liberalization, competition increased substantially.