Unlicensed Imported Medicines

The East Of England NHS Collaborative Hub is currently in the planning stage of a procurement process for "Unlicensed Imported Medicines". This upcoming tender aims to establish a safe and cost-effective framework for medicines that are imported into the UK but lack UK marketing authorisation, ensuring consistent and centralised quality assurance across individual NHS Trusts. The procurement is classified under the pharmaceutical products and pharmacy services industry categories, encompassing both goods and services.

The framework will operate within the UK, with an anticipated contract period from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2028, potentially extending up to 2034. Businesses can expect a future notice of this procurement to be published by 1 October 2025. This tender offers significant growth opportunities for businesses specialising in pharmaceutical products and pharmacy services, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), given the suitability criteria outlined.

The framework agreement suggests a collaborative approach and long-term commitment, which can enhance business stability and foster innovation. Companies with expertise in quality assurance and regulatory compliance, especially those with experience in working with international medicines, would be highly suitable to compete for this procurement, potentially contributing to streamlining import processes and improving patient safety standards across the NHS. The substantial estimated contract value also indicates lucrative opportunities for participating businesses.