Drug Prices Set to Rise as NPPA Clears WPI-Linked Hike for 2025

New Delhi: The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has notified a 0.64956% increase in the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for the calendar year 2025 over 2024, permitting manufacturers to revise prices of scheduled drug formulations accordingly.

The Office Memorandum, issued by the NPPA under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India, is based on WPI data provided by the Office of the Economic Advisor, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

According to the memorandum, the annual change in WPI for 2025 over the corresponding period in 2024 has been calculated at (+0.64956%).

As per Paragraph 16(2) of the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 (DPCO, 2013), manufacturers are permitted to increase the Maximum Retail Price (MRP) of scheduled formulations in line with the notified WPI change. The memorandum clarifies that no prior government approval is required for such price revisions.

The NPPA stated that the memorandum is issued for information and necessary action by all stakeholders in accordance with the provisions of DPCO, 2013.

To view the notice, click the link below: