On 26 May 2025, the World Heart Federation delivered a statement on substandard and falsified medicines at the 78th session of the World Health Assembly.

The World Heart Federation, supported by the Fight the Fakes Alliance, welcomes the independent evaluation of the Member State Mechanism on Substandard and Falsified Medical Products.

Globally, countries waste an estimated 30.5 USD billion annually on substandard and falsified medical products. In addition, WHO estimates that 1 in 10 medicines in low- and middle-income countries are substandard or falsified, endangering lives and eroding trust in health systems.

We strongly support the recommendation on improving external engagement with non-State actors, such as our alliance, and call on WHO to continue its work against substandard and falsified medical products. We stand ready to work with Member States, WHO, civil society, regulatory agencies, law enforcement, custom officers, manufacturers, distributors, healthcare workers, and all relevant stakeholders to ensure universal access to safe, effective, and high-quality medical products.

a joint statement BY: