The Government of Canada took the first step in reviewing Canada’s Access to Medicines Regime (CAMR) with the release of a consultation paper. The purpose of the paper is to focus dialogue on how CAMR might better meet its humanitarian objective of facilitating access to medicines in the developing world, while respecting international trade obligations and maintaining the integrity of the domestic patent system.
“By undertaking an early review of the relevant Patent Act provisions of CAMR, the government is demonstrating its continued commitment to being a global leader in improving access to medicines in developing and least-developed countries,” said the Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Industry.
“CAMR is one part of Canada’s broader response to fighting public health problems such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and other epidemics afflicting the developing world,” said the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health.