Saidal, Boehringer Ingelheim Target Innovative Drug Localization
Algeria and Germany are reinforcing a strategic partnership in the pharmaceutical industry, aiming to localize the production of innovative drugs, including anticancer treatments and biotechnologies. Minister of Pharmaceutical Industry, Wassim Kouidri, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, emphasizing the transition from conventional manufacturing to a deeper transfer of knowledge and technology. This initiative, discussed at the "Pharma 2026" conference themed "Health and Sovereignty: An Algerian-German Axis for a Strong National Pharmaceutical Industry", is designed to build sustainable industrial capacities within Algeria.
This partnership, notably involving the public group Saidal and German company Boehringer Ingelheim, includes localizing the production of an innovative treatment for rare and advanced pulmonary fibrosis, alongside innovative breast cancer medications and biosimilar drugs. Minister Kouidri underscored this as a crucial move towards localizing innovative medicines and bolstering national capabilities in technology and innovation. The Ministry is committed to supporting these productive investments to further strengthen national production.
The efforts aim to not only enhance domestic drug production and provide modern treatments but also to open new export opportunities, particularly targeting African markets. Developing the national pharmaceutical industry is considered a fundamental pillar for both health security and economic growth. Recent initiatives have already significantly boosted Algeria's production capacities, with locally manufactured medicines now covering 82 percent of national market needs, 95 percent of which represents the full production chain. Abd El Wahid Kerrar, CEO of Biofarm and Vice-President of the Algerian Economic Renewal Council, noted this period marks a new phase of development for the Algerian pharmaceutical industry amidst positive economic relations with Germany.
