A decree published on August 6, 2025 sets new limits on discounts, rebates, and financial incentives that laboratories can grant to pharmacies, under Article L.138-9 of the French Social Security Code.
WHAT'S CHANGING
Until now, the general cap was 2.5% of the ex-factory price (excluding tax). The new decree introduces higher, transitional ceilings for certain drugs — generics, hybrids, biosimilars, and their reference products — before establishing a single, stable cap of 20%.
- Sept. 2025 – June 2026: up to 30% for generics/hybrids, 15% for biosimilars.
- July 2026 – June 2027: 25% / 17.5%.
- From July 1, 2027: harmonized at 20% for all these medicines.
- January 1, 2028: the 20% cap becomes definitive.
WHY IT MATTERS
The reform has two main goals:
- Boost uptake of generics and biosimilars, which are key to controlling healthcare costs.
- Provide clarity and predictability for pharmacists and manufacturers, thanks to a gradual transition toward a single cap.
An evaluation report is expected by May 2026 to assess how these new limits impact discounts in practice and the market penetration of the targeted medicines.
