On 3 June, the IV International Pharmaceutical Forum of Uzbekistan was held, organised by the country’s Pharmaceutical Industry Association. At the forum, Alexander Panov, Senior Partner at VERBA LEGAL, spoke during Panel Session 2: “Localisation and Contract Manufacturing in Uzbekistan: How to Attract International Pharmaceutical Companies?”

The session brought together experts from various countries to discuss key barriers and best practices, as well as government initiatives aimed at developing pharmaceutical production in the region.

Participants addressed important topics including:

• The competitive advantages that make Uzbekistan an attractive location for localisation;

• Contract manufacturing as the first step towards localisation;

• The development of the medicine supply system as a factor in healthcare improvement;

• Potential growth areas and challenges for sustainable localisation from the perspective of foreign companies;

• The role of government support and international experience in creating a favourable manufacturing environment;

• Successful partnership models between local and international manufacturers.

The forum highlighted Uzbekistan’s aim to become a pharmaceutical hub in Central Asia and to attract global players to invest in and develop innovative production within its borders.