COVID-19 antigen test now reduced to R150

Another landmark agreement has been reached to see the reduction of the COVID-19 rapid antigen test kit.

The Competition Commission & private pathology groups Pathcare, Lancet and Ampath, have agreed to reduce the price of Covid-19 Rapid Antigen tests to no more than R150 inclusive of VAT with immediate effect.

Initially the test was valued at R350 including VAT. It was discounted to R250 in November and early December.

The rapid antigen tests are a cheaper alternative to the popular PCR test, which was also reduced from R850 to no less than R500 earlier this month.

“This is the second successive price reduction has concluded with the three private labora groups in less than 14 days,” said the Competition Commission.

According to the commission, the pricing will remain valid for the next two years.