Qatar MoPH Issues Circular on Remaining Shelf Life Requirement for Imported Medicines

The Department of Pharmacy and Drug Control (PDC) – Qatar has issued a new circular and exemption guideline regulating the importation of medicines with less than two-thirds (2/3) of their remaining shelf life.

The guideline aims to ensure patient safety, maintain pharmaceutical quality, and support the continuity of medical care in the State of Qatar.

🔍 What’s New

Licensed pharmaceutical agents and importers must obtain a written exemption from the PDC if imported medicines have less than two-thirds (2/3) of their remaining shelf life.

Exemptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis, particularly in situations such as documented national or regional shortages of essential medicines with no suitable registered alternative, or for emergency and life-saving use.

📝 Application Requirements

Exemption requests must be submitted to the PDC before shipment arrival, including:

• Product name and Batch/Lot details
• Documentation of total and remaining shelf life
• Justification supporting the exemption request
• Usage plan to ensure consumption before expiry
• Supplier commitment to replace expired stock or cover destruction costs

📅 Implementation Timeline

Effective immediately – 08 April 2026

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📎 Official Guideline: MEDICAL SHELF GUIDE ENG

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