Commerce and Services

The grocery market is important in the Icelandic economy as it is a large part of the household shopping basket. It faces challenges that can affect both businesses and consumers. There are warning signs concerning too much concentration, which can lead to fewer choices and higher prices for consumers.

Smaller players may therefore fail to compete. To address these challenges, a robust regulatory framework must be in place to prevent oligopoly in the market. It is important to closely monitor developments in the grocery market and take immediate action if concentration becomes too great. Small and medium-sized grocery companies need to be supported to prevent oligopoly, for example, in the form of incentives, grants, or technical assistance. Ways should also be found to encourage innovation in other distribution channels, such as farmers' markets, and support domestic production.

Framsókn believes it is important that commerce and services operate in a competitive environment with an efficient regulatory framework. The authorities need to promote healthy competition in the consumer goods market. The operation of grocery stores in smaller communities is an important factor in maintaining basic services across the country. Support for such stores needs to be strengthened in smaller settlements for the benefit of the local community, as the operation of grocery stores is often the heart of each community.

The laws and regulations regarding pharmaceutical imports and parallel imports of medicines should be reviewed. Ways should be sought to enhance competition in the pharmaceutical wholesale market. In this context, it should be mentioned that all pharmaceutical wholesalers should be allowed to import medicines that already have marketing authorization in this country. Efforts should also be made to reduce costs and simplify the process of new registrations of medicines to enhance competition and reduce drug shortages.