By Staff Writer
The Zambia-European Union pharmaceutical manufacturing forum has attracted 50 companies, 18 of which are from Europe.
According to a statement from EU-COMESA delegation to Zambia information officer Elias Banda, the forum is a joint public-private initiative by Zambia and the European Union delegation to Zambia and COMESA.
EU head of delegation to Zambia and COMESA Jacek Jankowski said Zambia’s pharmaceutical industry is crucial for increasing health security and for private sector-driven socio-economic development.”
Mr Jankowski said the forum provides a unique networking and investment opportunity for Zambian and European pharmaceutical companies so that Zambia can realise her full potential to become a producer and over time even an exporter of pharmaceutical products in the region.
“Zambia is to host the Zambia-EU Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Forum in Lusaka from March 1-3, 2023. So far at least 50 companies have registered to participate, 18 of whom are pharmaceutical manufacturing companies from Europe. The Forum strives to strengthen Zambia’s capacity to produce pharmaceuticals and medical supplies locally.
Me Jankawski also said that the European Union supports this Forum through its regional ‘Team Europe Initiative’ on Manufacturing and Access to Vaccines, Medicines and Health Technologies (MAV+).
“Other partners in the forum are the Ministry of Commerce, Trade and Industry, the Zambia Development Agency and Zambian business associations with a stake in the pharmaceutical industry.” he said
Mr Jankowski added that the Zambia Medicines and Medical Supplies Agency (ZAMMSA), Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority (ZAMRA) as well as the Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) are important actors across the entire pharmaceutical value chain.
