Ensuring Universal Access to Safe and High-Quality Medical Products

FTFA Statement | 156^th WHO Executive Board 2025

This statement was delivered by the World Heart Federation, on behalf of the Fight the Fakes Alliance, at the 156^th session of the WHO Executive Board

Honourable Chair, Distinguished Delegates,

The World Heart Federation, supported by the Fight the Fakes Alliance, welcomes the independent evaluation of the Member State Mechanism on Substandard and Falsified Medical Products.

Globally, countries waste an estimated 30.5 USD billion annually on substandard and falsified medical products. In addition, WHO estimates that 1 in 10 medicines in low- and middle-income countries are substandard or falsified, endangering lives and eroding trust in health systems. (According to WHO latest data from Dec 2024)

We strongly support the recommendation on improving external engagement with non-State actors, such as our alliance, and call on WHO to continue its work against substandard and falsified medical products. We stand ready to work with Member States, WHO, civil society, regulatory agencies, law enforcement, custom officers, manufacturers, distributors, healthcare workers, and all relevant stakeholders to ensure universal access to safe, effective, and high-quality medical products.