In secret, during “trade” negotiations. Just one example: the 12 years of data exclusivity for biologics is currently US law, but that may get carved into stone in the new Trans-Atlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TIIP). Once enshrined in a trade agreement, this rule and thousands more will be immune to change by any national democratic process.
Who participates in this process? Generally, only “cleared advisors” from the Fortune 500.
A partial (leaked) list of the initial bargaining positions for the EU are downloadable here. In the Initial Positions Papers, the EU notes that they have approved 16 biosimilars which have not yet been recognized as such in the US. Other topics include generic approvals, GMP inspections, and regulatory science for drug approvals.
All of decisions have immense potential impact for consumer welfare. My concern is the undemocratic lack of transparency for the entire process.
@koutterson
