Centre Bans Export Of Malaria Drug

NEW DELHI: The Centre on Wednesday put hydroxychloroquine on the prohibited list for exports to prevent a rush of shipments out of the country after US President Trump suggested that the anti-malaria drug could help fight Covid-19.

In a notification on Wednesday, the directorate general of foreign trade (DGFT) has put hydroxychloroquine and formulations made from it on the prohibited list. The drug joins ventilators, sanitisers and face masks on a list of items whose exports have been barred.

There are, however, a few exceptions. For instance, exports will be permitted from special economic zones and export-oriented units as well as to meet the export obligation under the advance license scheme. Shipments will also be allowed if an irrevocable letter of credit was issued before the notification or if full advance payment has been received.-Times Of India