UAE's Pharmaceutical Surge: 40% Production Growth
The United Arab Emirates' Pharmaceutical Surge: What Does a 40% Local Production Increase Mean?
The pharmaceutical industry in the United Arab Emirates has undergone significant development in recent years, driven by experiences gained during the Covid-19 pandemic and subsequent strategic steps. The country is now on the brink of another milestone: local pharmaceutical production is expected to grow by 40% in the coming year. This development could not only improve the accessibility and pricing of medications but also bring long-term benefits to the country's healthcare system.
The Rise of Local Production
Currently, more than 35 pharmaceutical factories are operating in the Emirates, with further facilities under development. Over the past five years, the number of local manufacturers has significantly increased, thanks to government support, new regulatory frameworks, and investments flowing into the healthcare industry.
According to the co-founder of PRA Consultancy, this growth can significantly reduce dependence on imports while promoting competitive pricing and easier access to specialized medications. However, he also pointed out that price reductions depend on factors such as initial investment costs, regulatory oversight, and market competition.
Covid-19: A Turning Point in the Industry
The pandemic not only tested the efficiency of healthcare systems worldwide but also accelerated the growth of the Emirates' pharmaceutical capacity. One of the country's most important achievements was the production of Hayat-Vax, the first Covid-19 vaccine manufactured in the Arab region. This step highlighted the Emirates' leadership role in global healthcare.
The Role of AI in Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
The Emirates is already a leader in the application of AI technology in healthcare. Dr. Al Moussli states that the next step is to incorporate these intelligent solutions into pharmaceutical manufacturing. Free trade zones like Kizad and the Jebel Ali Free Zone offer further opportunities to boost local production, while AI can make production processes more efficient and cost-effective.
New Factories and Expanding Capacities
The industry is divided into two main forms of production: full manufacturing and secondary packaging. Companies like Globalpharma already offer a wide range of products, including antihypertensives, diabetes medications, vitamins, and antibiotics. Incentives and support provided by the government are attracting even more investors to the sector.
Another example is the Swiss-based Acino Pharma, which has opened new facilities in the Emirates, further strengthening the country's role in the global pharmaceutical market.
Balancing Affordability and Quality
According to a consultant from Globalpharma, the growth of local production not only improves the stability of the supply chain but also the availability and affordability of medications. Responses to challenges such as the treatment of Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) show that local production can respond more quickly to new healthcare demands.
Local manufacturers are capable of maintaining separate production lines for government tenders, ensuring that medications are available at lower prices. This is especially important for essential medications like antibiotics, antihypertensive treatments, and vitamins.
What Lies Ahead?
The growth of local pharmaceutical production can further strengthen the United Arab Emirates' position in the global healthcare sector. The integration of AI and other advanced technologies, along with the establishment of new factories and free trade zones, can contribute to stabilizing prices and further improving quality.
This development not only makes healthcare delivery more efficient for the country's residents but can also set an example regionally for sustainable pharmaceutical manufacturing. The Emirates continue to demonstrate that innovation and strategic investments can transform industries and enhance people's lives.
