Italy's pharmacy ownership rules challenged

The European Commission has formally demanded that the Italian government amend legislation which restricts the ownership of multiple retail pharmacies. Under existing provisions in force in Italy, the maximum number of outlets that a pharmacy chain can operate is four, which must all be located within the same one of the country's 108 provinces.

The Commission notes that such practices are contrary to Article 43 of the European Community Treaty and are a restraint of trade. The demand for government action is the second step of enforcement action by the European authority. If the Italian restrictions are not acted upon within two months, the case may be referred to the European Court of Justice.