Swissmedic Reports Rise in Illegal Medicine Imports in 2025

Swissmedic has released updated figures on illegal medicinal product imports into Switzerland, showing a renewed increase in 2025. In cooperation with the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS), authorities intercepted 6,647 consignments — up 17% from 2024.

The product mix has shifted notably. Erectile stimulants declined to 41% (from 57% in 2024), while hair loss treatments (19%) and hormones, including melatonin (12%), rose significantly. Sleeping pills, tranquillisers and nasal sprays remain common. Anti-infectives account for 3%, raising concerns about antimicrobial resistance.

Shipment origins have also changed: 40% now come from Western Europe, particularly France and Germany, while shares from India (20%) and Eastern Europe (15%) decreased. Authorities observed increasingly sophisticated evasion tactics, including splitting large orders into small parcels to bypass one-month import limits. The findings highlight a highly adaptive illegal market and ongoing consumer health risks.

28-02-2026