Local manufacturing of medicines, new partnerships could help reduce reliance on imports

Last updated: October 28, 2026 | 00:04

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Abu Dhabi is working towards becoming a major centre for pharmaceutical manufacturing, with plans to increase local medicine production, attract international companies and expand exports over the next decade.

Speaking to Gulf News, Dr Fokion Sinis, CEO of ADCAN Pharma, said producing more medicines locally would help the UAE strengthen its healthcare system and reduce its dependence on international supply chains.

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He explained that the COVID-19 pandemic showed how countries relying heavily on imported medicines could face shortages during global disruptions.

“Local manufacturing has moved to the centre of the UAE’s healthcare strategy,” he said.

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