Why Are Medical Mask Prices Not Regulated in Armenia?

The newspaper "Zhoghavorud" reports that for more than two months, since the first cases of coronavirus were detected in Armenia, the prices of medical protective masks have not been regulated in the country. Despite the low wholesale prices and previous sales in pharmacies for as little as 30 drams, today these masks are sold at considerably higher prices in pharmacies.

Crucially, not only is the market for medical protective masks unregulated, but so is the quality of these products. There is no institution responsible for checking or controlling their quality, and the Competition Protection Agency (CPA) only studies the prices present in large retail networks. Nevertheless, today in pharmacies, one medical mask is sold for between 210 and 250 drams.

According to ArmLur.am, medical masks are also sold on the website list.am, with prices starting from 70 drams up to 180 drams. After making several phone calls, it became clear that the masks priced at 70 and 110 drams are sold in pharmacies for 210-220 drams. The individuals selling masks on list.am are offering them at wholesale prices.

It is also noted that, according to the decree of the Prime Minister, as of May 4, entry of customers into trade objects without personal protective equipment—masks and gloves—has been prohibited.

According to Health Minister Arsen Torosyan, masks should be changed every 3-4 hours, as they accumulate moisture and dust, becoming dangerous and creating a favorable environment for viruses and other microorganisms.

The question now is, where does a citizen earning at least 68,000 drams per month find the money to buy multiple masks daily and ensure their safety?

For more details, refer to today's issue of the newspaper.