Aspirin Enteric-Coated Tablets Priced at ¥0.03 Each Spark Debate

In the 10th round of national centralized drug procurement, the extremely low price of enteric-coated aspirin tablets has garnered widespread attention. Specifically, the price was as low as RMB 0.03 per tablet. The market has raised concerns, fearing that overemphasis on low prices might harm corporate interests and potentially impact drug quality. Some media outlets have even questioned: "Would you dare to take such low-priced medicine?" However, most of these worries may be unnecessary.

Firstly, the production cost of aspirin is relatively low due to its simple synthesis process and cheap raw materials. In the U.S. market, the price of aspirin is also calculated in cents. For example, at Walgreens, standard aspirin tablets cost $0.01 per tablet, while enteric-coated tablets cost $0.03. Even Bayer's original drug costs just $0.09 per tablet. Therefore, the price in China is actually within a normal range.

Secondly, while centralized procurement has led to significant price reductions, the process is not about indiscriminate price suppression. It aims to adjust the profits of generic drugs to a reasonable range. For example, dapagliflozin experienced a significant price drop due to "negotiation tactics" but still achieved an annual domestic sales volume of RMB 7 billion. Globally, price adjustments for generics are common; China's adjustments are merely returning to a more rational market logic.

To address concerns about the efficacy of generics, regulators have implemented consistency evaluations to enhance quality control. Under normal circumstances, drug quality remains reliable, and the public should not be overly worried. However, regulatory bodies must continue ensuring the long-term stability of drugs procured through centralized purchasing.

Regulatory oversight and constructive criticism play a positive role in industry development. Nevertheless, unfounded negative publicity could harm the pharmaceutical sector.