Walmart onboard with blockchain/drug supply chain pilot
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is working with Walmart, IBM, KPMG and Merck to apply blockchain technology in the drug supply chain.
A pilot programme, tied to the US Drug Supply Chain Security Act (DSCSA), will develop a blockchain network to identify and trace the distribution of prescription medicines and vaccines. The aim is to address multiple issues, including the time it takes to track and trace inventory, the accuracy of data shared among members of the supply network, and the integrity of products in the distribution chain.
“With successful blockchain pilots in pork, mangoes and leafy greens that provide enhanced traceability, we are looking forward to the same success and transparency in the biopharmaceutical supply chain,” says Karim Bennis, Walmart’s Vice President of Strategic Planning and Implementation, Health and Wellness.
“We believe we have to go further than offering great products that help our customers live better at everyday low prices. Our customers also need to know they can trust us to help ensure products are safe. This pilot and US Drug Supply Chain Security Act requirements will help us do just that.”
The pilot project is scheduled to be completed in Q4 2019, and results are expected to be published in an FDA DSCSA programme report. The participants will then evaluate next steps.
