The Korea Research-based Pharma Industry Association (KRPIA) announced Tuesday that it would no longer provide souvenirs and promotional gifts to medical professional from next year.

The decision came after the KRPIA agreed to follow the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers’ (IFPMA) new “Code of Practice.” The code prohibits pharmaceutical companies from providing items such as souvenirs and promotional products related to medicines to healthcare workers.

However, the companies can still provide small items such as pens and notepads that have their logo, at academic or educational events.

The IFPMA recommended its members and global pharmaceutical company to incorporate the code in June. Accordingly, the KRPIA decided to abide by the revised contents and informed all member companies about the revision on Monday. The association will also provide an FAQ sheet fort member companies and quickly put the new rule into action.

KRPIA members plan to review their souvenir and promotional offer procedures and prepare to enforce the amendments from Jan. 1. KRPIA also intends to notify the decision to the government and other related organizations.

“The government has emphasized ethical management in the pharmaceutical industry, and the IFPMA has also actively been working on revising its regulations to emphasize the transparency and ethics of the global pharmaceutical industry,” a KRPIA official said. “In light of such actions, our members will take the initiative in making Korea’s pharmaceutical industry healthier.”

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