Foundation hosts event to launch report on generic & biosimilar medicine manufacturers

The Access to Medicine Foundation’s newly established Generic and Biosimilar Medicines Programme is set to release its inaugural research report on 26 September 2023. This report is an independent assessment of generic and biosimilar medicine manufacturers’ actions on expanding access to medicine, and includes profiles of five leading companies: Cipla, Hikma, Sun Pharma, Teva, and Viatris. Company performance was assessed using a first-of-its-kind analytical framework developed under the Programme.

To mark this milestone, the Foundation, in partnership with Stewart Investors, will convene a multi-stakeholder launch event in Mumbai, India, to present and disseminate the results of the report. The event aims to bring together experts and stakeholders to share insights, exchange best practices, and establish a consensus on priorities and necessary actions to ensure sustainable, continuous, and affordable access to essential medicines in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). 

Background

Generic and biosimilar medicine manufacturers play a critical role in ensuring people around the world have access to a reliable and affordable supply of quality-assured medicines. Among the medicines listed on the World Health Organization's Model List of Essential Medicines (EML), only 10% are under patent protection. This highlights the essential role of generic and biosimilar medicines in meeting global healthcare needs. Despite this, access gaps persist, particularly in LMICs, where many individuals struggle to access medicines.  

Manufacturers of generic and biosimilar medicines are uniquely positioned to expand access in LMICs, due to their large-scale manufacturing capacity, adaptive R&D expertise, and established presence in these countries.

The Generic and Biosimilar Medicine Manufacturers Programme applies the Foundation’s proven model for change of stimulating major players to take action and bring together experts from the generics industry and beyond to explore strategies for improving access. 

Generic & Biosimilar Medicines Programme

The 2023 Analytical Framework

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Event agenda

The event will begin with an introductory presentation and opening remarks from Access to Medicine Foundation CEO Jayasree K. Iyer, followed by two presentation sessions and a moderated discussion.

Session 1: Exploring the role of generic and biosimilar medicine manufacturers in equitable access in (LMICs): A compelling perspective for investors - Sujaya Desai, Analyst and Portfolio Manager, Stewart Investors.

Session 2: Moving the needle on access to essential generic and biosimilar medicines in LMICs: What are the main findings from the first assessment of manufacturers' activities in access? - Access to Medicine Foundation.

Moderated discussion: Leading manufacturers of generic and biosimilar medicines, and experts from the global health community, governments, and healthcare providers, will share learnings and experiences on how to increase the availability and affordability of essential generic and biosimilar medicines in LMICs – moderated by Jayasree K. Iyer, CEO, Access to Medicine Foundation.

Read more about the Foundation’s Generic and Biosimilar Medicines Programme here.