ArticleTherapeutic innovation & regulatory science2026
Trends and Regulatory Insights on Illicit Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Imports: Evidence from Malaysia's Operation Pangea 2020-2023.
Article in Therapeutic innovation & regulatory science, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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Abstract
introductionThe trade of illicit pharmaceutical products and cosmetics (IPCs) poses a significant public health threat, particularly in Malaysia where evolving online-to-offline supply chains facilitate their influx. The Pharmacy Enforcement Branch participates in INTERPOL's Operation Pangea to curb this trade at logistical entry points. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, detection-seizure ratios, and categories of IPCs detected and seized at Sarawak's entry points during Operation Pangea from 2020 to 2023.
methodsThis retrospective cross-sectional study analysed data extracted from Operation Pangea reports (2020-2023). Universal sampling was applied to all entry-point screening cases, while records with missing data, West Malaysia imports, and passenger luggage imports were excluded. IPCs were defined as products or cosmetics not registered or notified with the Ministry of Health. Prevalence and detection-to-seizure ratios were calculated using descriptive statistics, and chi-square tests were used to determine associations between variables and enforcement outcomes.
resultsA total of 301 consignments (1006 individual items) were screened, mainly through courier services and at the Southern Zone (Kuching). Screening detected 281 IPCs, corresponding to a 27.9% detection rate, of which only 67 (23.8%) were seized. Products containing scheduled poisons and supplements were the most frequently seized categories. Significant associations were found between consignment type and both detection and seizure outcomes, with courier consignments showing higher rates. The Seizure Detection Ratio declined markedly from 1.00 in 2021 to 0.05 in 2023. Most seized items were intended for treatment purposes, including chronic disease medications and analgesics.
conclusionThis study demonstrates a high prevalence of IPCs in imported consignments in Sarawak, highlighting ongoing risks associated with IPC supply chains. The decline in seizure detection ratio suggests the need to review enforcement consistency and prioritization to strengthen regulatory effectiveness.
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