Marketing of pharmaceuticals products in Croatia
Since joining the EU, Croatia has implemented the applicable European Union regulatory framework for the pharmaceuticals sector.
Regulatory Framework
The legal framework governing pharmaceuticals distribution is based on the Croatian Regulation on Medicine Advertisement (CRMA). This regulation permits several marketing activities, including advertising to the general public, organization of promotional events for authorized medicine prescribers, and professional conferences.
Advertisement Requirements
Any advertisement regarding medical products intended for the general public must undergo examination and approval by compliance experts. The CRMA imposes numerous restrictions on advertising content. Prohibited claims include assertions that “the advertised medicine guarantees success in treating a specific illness or is better than other similar products.”
Ethical Guidelines
The Ethical code established by the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) applies to events organized by pharmaceutical market professionals in Croatia.
Enforcement and Penalties
Non-compliance with CRMA provisions results in financial penalties ranging from EUR 13,000 to EUR 20,000. Beyond monetary fines, pharmaceutical companies may also experience reputational harm from violations.