PM says govt working on plan to promote pharmaceutical industry, exports

CAIRO - 3 September 2019: Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli said Tuesday his government is working on a national plan to support the pharmaceutical industry and exports.

All chances should be used to upgrade this vital sector, Madbouli said in a Cabinet meeting, pointing out that Egyptian medicines are competitive in terms of quality and price and could very well tap international pharmaceutical markets.

Health Minister Hala Zayed reviewed general aspects of the plan and challenges facing a desired expansion in exports.

Africa is one of the most important promising markets, especially with Egypt chairing the AU, Zayed said.

She touched upon efforts and initiatives to support Egyptian pharmaceutical exports to Africa.

Zayed put at about 789 million dollars the total value of Egyptian pharmaceutical exports in 2018, noting that 65 million dollars of which are worth of imports from Africa.