South Africa’s Competition Commission has launched an investigation into Novo Nordisk and Sanofi over potential anti-competitive practices in the country’s human insulin pen market, the regulator confirmed on Tuesday.
“We are currently engaging with market participants,” a spokesperson for the commission said, without providing further details on the probe.
The investigation focuses on two of the world’s largest insulin manufacturers. While Sanofi has not yet responded to inquiries, Novo Nordisk stated that it welcomes the opportunity to cooperate with authorities and provide relevant information.
Novo Nordisk’s Shift in Insulin Supply Strategy
Novo Nordisk revealed that it had opted out of South Africa’s 2024 tender for human insulin pens, instead choosing to supply insulin vials to the public sector.
“We ensured that the public sector had adequate access to insulin through this route,” the company stated.
This decision aligns with Novo Nordisk’s global strategy to phase out human insulin pens, as the company redirects resources toward expanding production of its high-demand obesity and diabetes treatments.
Regulatory Scrutiny in the Insulin Market
The probe highlights growing regulatory attention on competition and affordability in the insulin market, a sector where pricing and accessibility remain major concerns worldwide.
As the investigation unfolds, South Africa’s Competition Commission aims to ensure fair market practices and equitable access to essential diabetes treatments for patients across the country.
