Published: 2:56pm, 2 Jan, 2019 Updated: 4:41pm, 2 Jan, 2019
Small , generic drug manufacturers in China are facing an increase to juicy profit margins after the government launched a pilot initiative in which major cities will buy certain medications in bulk . The move will force companies to bid for contracts and has already reduced prices by an average of 52 % , while one treatment cost fell by 90 % . Chinese Vice - Premier Sun Chunlan said the initiative would be expanded to hospitals in more cities and drugs as part of a wider drive to make patient care more affordable .