3M Phils sole importer of Micropore surgical tape

The Bureau of Food and Drugs recently reiterated its recognition of 3M Philippines as the sole importer and distributor of Micropore Surgical Tape, a medical product widely used for patient care and various applications in hospital and health care settings.

3M Philippines had previously filed a complaint with BFAD against Progressive Medical Corp. which is selling and distributing unregistered imported Micropore Surgical Tape. Locally, 3M’s exclusive nationwide distributor is Magwin marketing.

BFAD director William Torres, ruled that PMC and its affiliate Panamed Philippines, Inc. cannot sell or distribute the surgical tape brand locally as only 3M Philippines has the authority to do so. Progressive/Panamed appealed the decision but BFAD ruled that every product importer must register their product with BFAD regardless of whether that product has already been registered by another company.

The BFAD has been very strict about products being brought into the country to safeguard public health and safety. Several conditions and requirements must be met by importers before BFAD grants registration under the company name.

Micropore Surgical Tape is 3M Philippines’ biggest selling product for the hospital market. It was introduced for local hospital and health care use in the 70’s and has been preferred over other tapes because it is porous, allows skin to breathe and is hypoallergic, minimizing skin irritation.