Plan afoot to develop domestic medicines

The National Committee on Drug System Development has agreed to support the manufacture of innovative domestic drugs to reduce reliance on medicines from overseas.

Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, who chaired the latest committee meeting, said the panel has decided to develop drug manufacturing plants at a cost of over 10 billion baht, to reduce reliance on imported drugs.

A bill to promote the health and wellness economy in overseas markets will also be drafted, he said.

The committee previously announced a 2023-2027 Drug System Development plan. The key objectives are enhancing research and development to promote local ingredients and herbs for drug manufacturing.

The plan is expected to reduce drug imports while strengthening the capacity for drug exports in international markets and supporting better drug access for the public.

Reasonable pricing for medical care, a more efficient and fairer system for drug access, and integrated information system management are also part of the plan.

Mr Somsak said a team of experts is drafting a bill which will be the first piece of legislation supporting the manufacture of domestic drugs.

“We expect a domestic drug manufacturing industry will create significant income for the country,” Mr Somsak said.