EDB eyes pharmaceutical export boost through SLPMA partnership

THE Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) and the Sri Lanka Pharmaceutical Manufacturers' Association (SLPMA) has recently held a constructive dialogue to chart a collaborative path for strengthening country's pharmaceutical manufacturing sector with an eye on export expansion and overcoming regulatory bottlenecks.

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Recognised an emerging sector, the local pharmaceutical industry has attracted over Rs. 100 billion in investment over the past decade, establishing a production base of around 25 manufacturers. These firms supply around 15% of Sri Lanka’s domestic pharmaceutical needs and channel over 80% of their production to the Government’s Medical Supplies Division. Last year, pharmaceutical exports amounted to $ 8.07 million, reflecting a modest, but growing external market participation.

With the participation of key SLPMA figures including;

President Nalin Kannangara, Senior Vice President Dinesh Athapaththu, Vice President Viraj Manatunga, and leading industry executives from Navesta Pharmaceuticals COO Dr. Janaka Wickramasinghe, Sands Active Ltd., Dr. Anoop Segar, and Gamma Interpharm Ltd., Chairman Kalana Hewmallika the meeting highlighted the potential for Sri Lanka to position itself as a competitive player in the global pharmaceutical supply chain.