GSK investigates into corruption charges in UAE

Global healthcare company, GlaxoSmithKline, is investigating into allegations of corruption regarding improper payments in the UAE. The allegations were sent to the top management of the company in a whistleblower’s email. The company is looking into alleged bribery issues in Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Iraq.

GSK was recently fined a whopping USD 489 million in China for corruption charges. In wake of this event, major drug makers are under increased scrutiny.

The issue came to light when the whistleblower, purporting to be a GSK sales manager in the UAE, claimed that the British company directed payments to hospitals, pharmacies and healthcare professionals to secure business. Schemes to provide clients with bonus over-the-counter products for prescription pills were also reported.