Saidal Embarks on Three Major Pharmaceutical Raw Material Projects to Boost Self-Sufficiency
✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | June 3rd, 2024 — Saidal, the national pharmaceutical company, has announced ambitious projects to bolster local production and reduce Algeria’s dependency on imported raw materials for pharmaceutical production.
In a strategic effort to minimize Algeria’s reliance on imported raw materials for medication production, Saidal’s CEO Wassim Kouidri unveiled three significant projects in Batna province. These initiatives aim to establish Algeria as a key player in the pharmaceutical raw material market, both domestically and across Africa.
Major Projects in Batna and Médéa
During a visit to Batna, alongside the provincial governor and leaders from Batna and Constantine’s production units, Kouidri outlined the strategic initiatives. “We are here to evaluate the land designated for three major pharmaceutical raw material production projects,” Kouidri announced. “These facilities will produce insulin crystals, raw materials for cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory medications, as well as drugs for diabetes. Additionally, we will manufacture raw materials for paracetamol and aspirin.”
These ambitious plans are part of Saidal’s broader objective to meet national demand and expand into the export market. Kouidri emphasized that these projects will significantly enhance Algeria’s self-reliance in pharmaceutical production.
This announcement follows another major project in Médéa, focusing on transforming raw plant materials into active pharmaceutical ingredients. These initiatives are critical steps towards reducing Algeria’s heavy reliance on imported raw materials, currently at 80%.
Reducing Import Dependency
Minister of Industry and Pharmaceutical Production, Ali Aoun, underscored the urgency of reducing reliance on imported pharmaceutical raw materials during an interview on Chaîne 3 radio station. He noted that although Algeria meets 75% to 80% of its pharmaceutical needs, the industry is heavily dependent on imported raw materials. “The pharmaceutical industry is 80% reliant on imported raw materials and components,” Aoun stated.
He announced the launch of several projects aimed at producing raw materials with high industrial integration rates within the year. “2024 will witness the initiation of two or three projects to manufacture active ingredients and raw materials, aiming for an integration rate of 40% to 50% in the pharmaceutical industry,” he added.
Aoun stressed the importance of these projects, noting that reliance on imported raw materials undermines the goal of achieving self-sufficiency in healthcare. “Ensuring our healthcare coverage with locally manufactured medications that rely on imported raw materials is unsustainable,” he asserted.
Strategic Shift in the Pharmaceutical Industry
The transition from an import-dependent pharmaceutical industry to one capable of producing raw materials locally is a top priority for the Ministry of Industry and Pharmaceutical Production. “This is the challenge we have set for ourselves, and the entire team at the ministry is dedicated to integrating this sector as quickly as possible,” Aoun affirmed.
The successful implementation of these raw material production projects will significantly reduce import costs and enhance Algeria’s capacity to meet local demand while setting sights on the export market. These strategic moves are not only pivotal for the national economy but also position Algeria as a burgeoning leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing in Africa.
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