National Biotechnology Strategy ‘key pillar’ to achieve pharmaceutical, health security: Official

Nizar Al Hariri Advisor to Minister of Industry and Minerals

The National Biotechnology Strategy will be a key pillar in achieving the goals of the Vaccines and Biopharmaceutical Industry Committee, to achieve pharmaceutical and health security in Saudi Arabia, Nizar Al Hariri, Advisor to Minister of Industry and Minerals, and Secretary of the Vaccines and Biopharmaceutical Industry Committee, said.

The launch of the strategy at this time complements a significant aspect of Saudi Vision 2030 to achieve an advanced knowledge-based economy, he told Al-Eqtisadiah newspaper. Al Hariri explained that biotechnology, in its broad concept, will contribute to making the world more sustainable. Saudi Arabia has already secured an advanced international position in contributing to the development of various sectors in this field.

The committee started its duties with manufacturing and localization. It developed a strategy for localizing insulin production, leading to a partnership between Sudair Pharma and Sanofi, covering 20% of the Saudi market's insulin needs. This lays the groundwork for further agreements aiming to localize 70% of insulin requirements.

Additionally, the committee aims to manufacture plasma derivatives and vaccines with various technologies. It seeks to make Saudi Arabia a significant regional and international hub for this strategic industry, Al Hariri added.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced on Jan. 25, the launch of the National Biotechnology Strategy, Argaam reported.