CMA has today released the 2026 Regulatory Advocacy Report.
The report outlines CMA’s work over the past year across every major area of the complementary medicines sector, including ingredient scheduling, medicine labelling, manufacturing standards, advertising, exports, international market access and broader regulatory reform.
CMA Chief Executive Officer John O’Doherty said the report reflects the increasingly complex regulatory environment facing Australia’s complementary medicines industry.
“Over the past year, CMA delivered one of its most active advocacy programs to date, which extended across every major area of the complementary medicines sector,” he said.
“Both in Australia and internationally, the complementary medicines sector has faced an increasing volume of consultations, policy reviews, regulatory reforms and market access challenges. From ingredient scheduling and medicine labelling reforms to manufacturing standards, international scientific guidelines and export market access, the pace of change continues to accelerate.”
The report also highlights how CMA’s role extends well beyond responding to regulatory consultations.
“Increasingly, CMA is helping shape the future direction of the sector by identifying emerging challenges, developing practical solutions and bringing stakeholders together to drive positive outcomes,” Mr O’Doherty said.
“The breadth of work outlined in this report reflects the growing importance of having a strong, credible and technically capable industry association representing the interests of complementary medicines manufacturers, sponsors, suppliers and exporters.”
CMA’s advocacy stretches across a broad range of priority issues, including protecting access to low-risk ingredients, supporting proportionate regulation, improving pathways for innovation, strengthening manufacturing frameworks and expanding international market opportunities for Australian complementary medicines companies. A consistent focus throughout the year had been ensuring regulation remains balanced and fit for purpose.
“As regulatory expectations continue to evolve, CMA remains committed to ensuring Australia’s complementary medicines sector is represented by a strong, credible and influential voice – one that protects consumer access, supports innovation and helps our industry continue to thrive,” Mr O’Doherty said.
