Emirates Drug Establishment Strengthens Partnerships To Boost Pharmaceutical Industry Growth

Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, the UAE's Minister of State for Foreign Trade and Chairman of the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE), recently visited Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries (Julphar) in Ras Al Khaimah. Accompanying him were Dr. Maha Taysir Barakat, Dr. Amer Ahmad Sharif, Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, and Ahmed Al Rumaithi. This visit underscores the commitment to empowering local pharmaceutical manufacturers and enhancing the UAE's pharmaceutical security.

Al Zeyoudi highlighted the critical role of the pharmaceutical sector in establishing a robust healthcare system in the UAE. He praised Julphar for its significant achievements and its status as a leading national example in this field. "Through these visits, we seek to build a strategic collaboration among key players in the pharmaceutical sector," he stated.

The visit aligns with EDE's goals to foster partnerships with local producers, boost domestic manufacturing capacity, and promote self-sufficiency. This effort aims to position the UAE as a regional and global hub for innovative pharmaceutical development. Al Zeyoudi emphasized supporting successful homegrown projects that contribute to a diversified and sustainable economy.

During their tour of Julphar’s facilities, Al Zeyoudi and board members learned about the company's advanced manufacturing technologies used to produce various pharmaceutical products. These innovations are crucial for improving patients' quality of life.

Basil Ziadeh, CEO of Julphar, expressed gratitude for the visit, noting its significance in strengthening public-private sector cooperation. "We are honoured by the visit of Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi and his delegation," he said. This reflects ongoing government support for the pharmaceutical industry.

The interactive dialogue session during the visit explored challenges and opportunities within the sector. Discussions centred on enhancing public-private coordination, improving legislative frameworks, promoting research investment, and supporting innovation aligned with national objectives.

Commitment to Innovation

Al Zeyoudi reiterated that promoting locally manufactured pharmaceutical products is vital for national health security strategy. It also supports leadership's vision to diversify economic bases while ensuring sustainability across strategic industries.

He added that EDE has adopted an integrated approach focusing on regulatory frameworks, technical support for local manufacturers, investment in research and development, and international scientific collaborations.

Future Prospects

Julphar remains committed to using cutting-edge innovations and investing in national talent while adopting modern technologies. The company aims to support strategic goals like achieving pharmaceutical self-sufficiency and bolstering the UAE's position as a leading regional manufacturing hub.

The "Make it in the Emirates" initiative is central to this vision, showcasing local product strength and enhancing competitiveness internationally. The initiative continues guiding Julphar towards sustainable growth and global competitiveness.

With inputs from WAM