The Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP) has extended the deadline for pharmaceutical companies to file self-declarations and submit marketing expense details under the Uniform Code for Pharmaceutical Marketing Practices (UCPMP) 2024. The revised deadline is now August 31, 2025, offering an extension from the original July 31 cut-off.

As per UCPMP norms, managing directors or CEOs of pharmaceutical companies must provide a signed declaration confirming ethical marketing practices and full compliance with the Code. These include rules around promotional spending, gifting, hospitality, brand reminders, event sponsorships, and free samples.

Companies affiliated with industry associations are required to submit their declarations through those bodies. Others must upload the documents directly onto the government portal.

The extension comes in response to requests from industry stakeholders seeking additional time to align internal processes with UCPMP compliance requirements. Companies are also required to disclose marketing expenses for FY25 in Indian Rupees, detailing all promotional activities and associated costs.

Failure to comply with the new deadline could attract regulatory scrutiny, as the government intensifies efforts to bring greater transparency and accountability to pharmaceutical marketing in India.