Local production can improve access to medicines, vaccines and diagnostics
A new WHO report provides a framework and analysis
Producing quality medicines, vaccines and diagnostic tests locally is one way low and middle-income countries can improve people's access to them, as is highlighted in a series of new reports released by the World Health Organization (WHO) in Brussels today.
"This is the first study of this type that seeks to analyse how industry, trade and health policies can work together towards shared goals to both further economic development and improve public health." said Dr Marie-Paule Kieny, Assistant Director General for Innovation, Information, Evidence and Research at WHO.
The study highlights the challenge governments face in balancing the availability of quality-assured medical products that meet priority public health needs with ensuring that products are acceptable and affordable. Imports of affordable medicines, often generics manufactured in India and China, are one solution but the reports highlight a growing trend towards domestic production. The authors bring together evidence from a wide range of countries that are building a viable local manufacturing industry.
For more information contact: Robert Terry.