Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001957/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Dimitris Tsiodras (PPE)
The illicit trafficking of pharmaceuticals online is a growing threat in the EU. According to a Europol report[1], criminal networks operating in the EU exploit the vulnerability and despair of some patients by importing, exporting and producing illicit, counterfeit and unsafe products in clandestine laboratories. The trade in these products takes place primarily on the internet, with targeted advertisements on social media or instant messaging platforms directing citizens to temporary websites that often ‘imitate’ well-known e-commerce marketplaces. Such trafficking threatens public health and safety, as well as the trustworthiness of pharmaceuticals, and jeopardises investment in research.
In light of the above, can the Commission say:
- 1.How does it intend to help prevent and tackle the trafficking of counterfeit pharmaceuticals and increase citizens’ awareness of such practices?
- 2.How does it intend to ensure that all actors in the chain, including digital and instant messaging platforms, play their part in tackling this type of crime?
Submitted: 15.5.2025
- [1] 2025, Europol, The threat of pharmaceutical crime in the EU and beyond