Class action filed against Kobayashi Pharma in Taiwan: reports

55 people claim health affected by Japan drugmaker's red yeast rice dietary supplements

Kobayashi Pharmaceutical is facing a lawsuit in Taiwan brought by people claiming their health was negatively affected by the company's red yeast rice dietary supplements, which have been linked to over 100 deaths in Japan. (Photo by Ryutaro Yokoyama)

September 28, 2024 14:29 JST

TAIPEI (Kyodo) -- A Taiwanese consumer protection body filed a class action lawsuit Friday on behalf of 55 people who claim their health was affected by dietary supplements made by Japanese drugmaker Kobayashi Pharmaceutical that have been linked to deaths in Japan, according to Taiwanese media.

The nonprofit Consumer Protection Association is seeking close to $170 million New Taiwan dollars ($5.32 million) in damages against six companies, including Kobayashi Pharmaceutical's Taiwan subsidiary and Taiwanese importers in relation to the red yeast rice dietary supplements.