On June 17, 2025, in Brussels, Medicines for Europe presented a set of five strategic trade policy recommendations aimed at enhancing global access to medicines and boosting the competitiveness of the European Union’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. Representing 70% of dispensed medicines and 90% of critical medicines in the EU, the organization emphasized the need for decisive policy actions to overcome existing barriers in key international markets.
Enhancing Market Access and Reducing Trade Barriers
Building on insights from the 2024 Market Access Barriers Report by Vulcan Consulting, Medicines for Europe highlighted significant regulatory and trade challenges in 11 pivotal markets. The recommendations call for the elimination of tariffs, non-tariff barriers, and export restrictions to protect and stabilize global supply chains. Additionally, the organization stressed the importance of securing EU funding for green and digital transitions in off-patent pharmaceutical manufacturing, recognizing its strategic value in ensuring sustainable production.
Fostering Fair Competition and Intellectual Property Balance
Medicines for Europe advocates for fair and reciprocal market access through comprehensive trade agreements, which would promote healthy competition and widen patient access to treatments. The group also emphasizes the need for balanced intellectual property frameworks that facilitate timely competition from generic and biosimilar medicines. Furthermore, advancing regulatory convergence and mutual recognition is deemed essential to streamline access and minimize redundant regulatory processes, thereby enhancing efficiency and reducing delays in bringing medicines to market.
Inferences:
- Removing trade barriers can lead to more stable and resilient global medicine supply chains.
- Aligning industrial and trade policies with manufacturing excellence ensures long-term competitiveness.
- Balanced IP frameworks are crucial for timely introduction of cost-effective generics and biosimilars.
- Regulatory harmonization can significantly reduce time-to-market for essential medicines.
Medicines for Europe’s comprehensive approach not only addresses immediate trade and regulatory challenges but also lays the groundwork for sustainable growth in the pharmaceutical sector. By advocating for policies that support both market access and manufacturing competitiveness, the organization aims to ensure that high-quality, affordable medicines remain accessible to patients across the EU and globally. The proactive stance taken by Medicines for Europe underscores the critical role of collaborative policy-making in fostering a resilient and efficient healthcare system.
With its members employing 190,000 individuals across over 400 manufacturing and 126 R&D sites in Europe, Medicines for Europe is poised to drive significant advancements in healthcare. The sustained investment in research and development, up to 17% of turnover, highlights the sector’s commitment to innovation and quality. As the organization continues to engage with EU institutions, Member States, and global stakeholders, its efforts are expected to yield enhanced health outcomes and more sustainable European healthcare systems.
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