The EU directive requiring authorization for traditional herbal medicinal products was established in 2004 but did not come into force until May 1, 2011.
Napi Gazdaság said the government reached an agreement with traditional herbal medicine makers already in January to postpone the effect of the deadline. The draft legislation allows pharmacies to sell herbal medicines that can be steeped and drunk over the counter until March 31, 2013, after which traditional herbal medicine makers will have to comply with the EU directive and have their products authorized.
Between 3,000 and 4,000 tons of traditional herbal medicines are gathered in Hungary each year. About 10,000 people work in the industry which is worth an annual HUF 10 billion, about half of which is generated by pharmacies.
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