European Union Pharmaceutical Markets: A Case for Differential Pricing?

Differential pricing has been considered extensively for its potential to increase access to medicines in low- and middle-income countries. A differential pricing system applied within an economic union (such as the European Union [EU]) comprising high-income and middle-income countries would also increase access and provide stronger incentives to invest in the R&D of innovative medicines. Access to innovative medicines is limited in EU markets with relatively low GDP per capita, indicating that the current pricing system does not promote efficient access. This article looks at how theory could be put into practice suggesting ways to implement a differential pricing system in the EU that can enhance overall welfare.