The National Department of Health has announced an increase in medicine prices, effective from 1 October 2026.
This marks the second Single Exit Price (SEP) adjustment for medicines in 2026.
The adjustment will result in a uniform 2.88% increase in the SEP of all registered medicines listed on the national database as at 30 September 2026.
Department spokesperson Foster Mohale explained that the 2.88% increase is intended to provide manufacturers with relief to sustain medicine supplies, while maintaining affordability for patients and medical schemes.
“This extraordinary price adjustment applies to all medicines registered and listed on the national database as at 30 September 2026, including all related pack sizes,” Mohale said.
He described the move as the government’s response to domestic and geopolitical pricing pressures affecting the pharmaceutical sector.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to balancing affordability with sustainable medicine supplies while providing temporary relief to consumers.
The SEP framework is also intended to cushion the sector against rising costs and prevent price disparities in the sale of medicines.
