'COVID-19 Self-Test Kits' Available for Purchase at Convenience Stores Nationwide Until the End of September

[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] In preparation for the resurgence of COVID-19, the government will allow the sale of diagnostic kits at all convenience stores until the end of September.

The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety announced on the 20th that the sales locations for COVID-19 self-test kits will be expanded to approximately 48,000 convenience stores nationwide operated by seven convenience store chains (Ministop, 7-Eleven, Storyway, Emart24, C-Space, CU, and GS25).

According to this measure, convenience stores will be able to sell self-test kits temporarily until September 30, regardless of whether they have registered as medical device sellers.

The Ministry explained that this measure was implemented so that citizens can easily purchase self-test kits without being restricted by time or place, such as at night, on weekends, or at vacation spots.

Demand for COVID-19 self-test kits surged during the Omicron wave earlier this year, prompting the government to take market stabilization measures until April 30. However, as the outbreak subsided and purchases decreased, the number of pharmacies and convenience stores handling self-test kits also declined.

According to the Ministry, the current weekly production capacity of 10 domestic self-test kit manufacturers is sufficient to supply kits for 47.9 million people. However, the start date of sales at some convenience stores may vary depending on delivery conditions, so consumers are advised to check in advance whether the kits are available and the stock levels before visiting.

Three companies?7-Eleven, CU, and GS25?provide information on the locations and stock levels of convenience stores with self-test kits through their applications (apps).

A Ministry official stated, "We are continuously monitoring the production and distribution status of self-test kits as well as online price trends," adding, "We will respond promptly to ensure that supply is not disrupted due to an increase in COVID-19 cases."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.