Cofares President Eduardo Pastor Expresses Concerns Over Pharmaceutical Margins and Veterinary Prescriptions

Eduardo Pastor, president of Cofares, Spain’s leading pharmaceutical distribution company, has voiced dissatisfaction with the current profit margins within the sector and raised concerns regarding a proposal allowing veterinarians to prescribe certain medications. Despite record sales in 2025, Pastor emphasizes the need for adjustments to ensure the sustainability of the pharmaceutical supply chain.

Record Sales Mask Underlying Concerns

Cofares reported a record turnover of 4.580 billion euros in 2025, representing a 7.4% year-on-year increase [Source: prnoticias.com]. However, Pastor attributes this growth to a complex market environment marked by ongoing medication price revisions, which are squeezing the margins for wholesalers.

Disappointment with Pharmaceutical Distribution Margins

Pastor expressed strong dissatisfaction with the 6% profit margin currently allocated to pharmaceutical distribution, describing it as “poorly negotiated.” Cofares proposed increasing this margin to 7.6%, but the Ministry of Health did not approve the adjustment [Source: cofares.es]. He warned that this insufficient margin will necessitate the use of cooperative resources to manage financed health products, potentially impacting the overall financial health of the system.

Opposition to Veterinary Prescriptions

Pastor similarly strongly criticized a proposal by the Ministry of Agriculture that would allow veterinarians to prescribe and dispense animal medications. He stated that Cofares has prepared comprehensive legal objections to the plan, arguing that separating prescription and dispensing authority is crucial for maintaining public health and preventing antibiotic misuse [Source: cofares.es]. He believes allowing veterinarians to both prescribe and dispense medications could lead to uncontrolled practices and risks to public health.

Continued Leadership and Growth

Despite these challenges, Cofares maintains its position as the leading pharmaceutical wholesaler in Spain, holding a 29.47% market share [Source: prnoticias.com]. Since Eduardo Pastor assumed the presidency in late 2018, the cooperative has increased its turnover by 900 million euros [Source: eco.sapo.pt]. Pastor remains optimistic about the company’s future, emphasizing the importance of efficient management, strategic investments, and adaptation to market changes.

Eduardo Pastor’s Re-election and Support

Eduardo Pastor was re-elected as president of Cofares in November 2024, receiving 75.88% of the votes from the General Assembly [Source: cofares.es]. In June 2025, he received 87.82% of the votes in the General Assembly [Source: eco.sapo.pt], demonstrating strong support from cooperative members for his leadership and vision.