Nearly 2,800 private pharmacies in Sri Lanka are operating without licensed pharmacists, according to industry representatives, raising serious concerns over public safety, legal compliance, and the regulation of the pharmaceutical sector. With only about 2,000 pharmacists actively licensed among approximately 4,800 pharmacies nationwide, authorities warn that unlicensed outlets are increasingly handling prescription medications without professional oversight.
The All Ceylon Private Pharmacists’ Association emphasized that licensed pharmacists are legally required to supervise dispensing, ensure correct medication usage, and advise patients on proper drug administration. The association said the presence of unlicensed staff in more than half of the pharmacies poses significant health risks, noting that failure to enforce regulations could normalize unsafe dispensing practices across the country.
Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Sri Lanka announced that it has identified 24 institutions and digital platforms operating prohibited pyramid schemes following investigations conducted under the Banking Act. Among the entities named was I.C.A.N. Advertising (Pvt) Ltd along with affiliated promotional platforms.
Other companies and organizations listed include Tiens Lanka Health Care (Pvt) Ltd, Best Life International (Pvt) Ltd, Mark–Wo International (Pvt) Ltd, V M L International (Pvt) Ltd, Global Lifestyle Lanka (Pvt) Ltd, Fast3Cycle International (Pvt) Ltd, Sport Chain, Sport Chain ZS Society Sri Lanka, OnmaxDT, MTFE App, MTFE SL Group, MTFE Success Lanka, MTFE DSCC Group, Fastwin (Pvt) Ltd, Fruugo Oline (Pvt) Ltd, Ride to Three Freedom (Pvt) Ltd, Qnet, Era Miracle (Pvt) Ltd, Genesis Business School, Ledger Block, Isimaga International (Pvt) Ltd, Beecoin App, Sunbird Foundation, Windex Trading, The Enrich Life (Pvt) Ltd, Smart Win Entrepreneur (Pvt) Ltd, Net Fore International (Pvt) Ltd, Pro Care (Pvt) Ltd, Shade of Procare (Pvt) Ltd and SGO.
