EU health committee backs reforms to address medicine shortages

EANM notes the adoption of the European Parliament health committee’s position on the proposed Critical Medicines Act, marking an important step in the EU’s efforts to address medicine shortages and strengthen Europe’s health security.

The committee’s vote, which followed agreement on a set of compromise amendments, reflects a growing consensus on the need to reduce Europe’s reliance on external suppliers and to reinforce manufacturing and preparedness within the EU.

Among the key elements supported by MEPs are the creation of a dedicated fund for critical medicines under the next EU budget, procurement approaches that reward production based in Europe, and measures to encourage a more diversified supply base. MEPs also backed stronger coordination of national stockpiles, including a role for the European Commission in managing contingency supplies to respond to shortages more effectively across Member States.

The committee’s position will now be submitted to the European Parliament plenary in January. Subject to approval, negotiations with the Council and the Commission are expected to begin in the course of next year. The Council has already adopted its own position on the proposal.

EANM welcomes the increased focus on long-term supply security and looks forward to engaging with policymakers as discussions progress, notably also in relation to the Union list of critical medicines. Ensuring reliable access to critical medicines, including radiopharmaceuticals, remains essential for resilient healthcare systems and for meeting patients’ needs across Europe.

Published online: December 16, 2025.