Healthguard Distribution expands pharma distribution in Northern Province with new Regional Distribution Center in Jaffna 

20 March 2025: Healthguard Distribution, the country’s only fully-fledged national pharmaceutical distribution service, opened its seventh Regional Distribution Centre (RDC) in Jaffna recently. Located at 414, Palaly Road, Kondavil, Jaffna, just 3km from Jaffna town, this prime location offers easy access to all main roads, ensuring seamless distribution and supply of quality medicines to the community.

Having maintained a presence in the Northern Province for many years, Healthguard Distribution has witnessed the region’s growing healthcare needs and economic potential firsthand. The launch of the upgraded, fully regulatory-compliant Regional Distribution Centre in Jaffna is a strategic step forward, strengthening supply chain resilience, enhancing service delivery, and reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to supporting healthcare access and regional growth.

Healthguard already operates regional distribution centers in the Western, Central, Southern, Northwestern Sabaragamuwa and Eastern provinces. This latest expansion upgrades Healthguard Distribution’s presence in the Northern Province with a fully-fledged Regional Distribution Centre setup, significantly enhancing direct pharmacy coverage in the region. The new facility reinforces national regulatory compliance in line with NMRA Good Distribution Practices guidelines and beyond.

Spanning 5,000 square feet, the new RDC is equipped with 24/7 temperature-controlled storage facilities and backup power generators to maintain the safety and integrity of pharmaceutical products. The new facility significantly increases the region’s logistics capacity and preparedness for safe and reliable pharmaceutical distribution. It enables Healthguard Distribution to support local manufacturers and importers by providing seamless access to an island-wide network of pharmacies.

Furthermore, the deployment of advanced ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems allows for real-time billing to retail customers and ensures critical data is available at the root level, enhancing operational efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness across the supply chain. Additionally, the new center also acts as a catalyst for regional growth by creating sustainable employment opportunities and stimulating economic activity within the local community.

Commenting on the latest addition to the network, Healthguard Distribution Chief Executive Officer Shantha Bandara said, “Pharmaceutical distribution is a vital link in the healthcare ecosystem, and the enhancement of our distribution facility in Jaffna underscores our continued commitment to strengthening that link across the country. With this upgraded Regional Distribution Center, we are further improving the integrity, speed, and reach of our supply chain—ensuring that essential medicines and wellness products reach even the most remote communities, safely and efficiently. This facility is not just a logistical upgrade; it reflects our ongoing promise to deliver equitable healthcare access for all Sri Lankans.”

With a 24-hour delivery commitment, the upgraded RDC is set to enhance service levels across the entire Northern Province, efficiently catering to over 300 customers—including retail pharmacies, stocking doctors, Osu Sala outlets, and both private and government hospitals. The facility’s reach extends beyond Jaffna, covering key surrounding areas such as Vavuniya, Kilinochchi, Mullaitivu, and Mannar, ensuring consistent and timely access to essential medicines across the region.

With a growing footprint and a reputation for excellence, Healthguard Distribution continues to position itself as the most dependable and future-ready partner for pharmaceutical distribution in Sri Lanka. Leading local and multinational pharmaceutical companies have placed their trust in Healthguard to deliver with speed, precision, and regulatory compliance. Backed by advanced infrastructure, digital capabilities and teams of well-trained staff, the company is uniquely equipped to scale rapidly and meet the evolving needs of Sri Lanka’s healthcare landscape.