Introduction
As Canada's pharmaceutical manufacturers and exporters continue to play a crucial role in the country's healthcare landscape, the Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Association ("CPMEA") stands as the unified voice of this vital industry. With the largest manufacturers of medicines in Canada as members, CPMEA serves as a forum to address the unique challenges faced by domestic pharmaceutical manufacturers and to advocate for the importance of Canadian-based production in ensuring public health resilience and national security of supply.
The Need for CPMEA
While Canada boasts numerous local drug makers, the absence of a dedicated organization representing their needs has left policymakers with a limited understanding of the challenges confronting Canadian manufacturers. This lack of representation has hindered effective policy-making and support for the domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. The CPMEA's role becomes critical in bridging this gap to collaboratively develop innovative policies that will support the growth and sustainability of the industry.
A Call to Action
The pharmaceutical manufacturing industry in Canada is not only a significant contributor to the economy and productivity but also a key player in ensuring the country's security of access to essential medicines. Recent disruptions in the global supply chain, exacerbated by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted Canada's vulnerability to external sources of supply.
The over-reliance on foreign and geographically concentrated sources for critical drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) poses a serious national security risk. As other countries shift their focus towards supporting local production, Canada must also take proactive steps to safeguard its pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. We are increasingly recognizing the importance of addressing these vulnerabilities and ensuring a resilient supply chain for essential medicines.
Looking Ahead
It is evident that the status quo is no longer sustainable for Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturers. Without a collective effort to address the challenges faced by the industry, the country risks compromising its public health resilience, national security, and economic stability. The CPMEA's vision of uniting stakeholders and advocating for innovative policies is essential in shaping a future where Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturing thrives, ensuring a sustainable supply of medicines for the well-being of all Canadians.
In conclusion, the time for action is now. By working together under the leadership of the CPMEA, Canadian pharmaceutical manufacturers can navigate the complex landscape of challenges, secure the future of the industry, and reinforce Canada's position as a leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing production. The road ahead may be paved with obstacles, but with collective action and strategic planning, the industry can overcome these challenges and chart a course towards a stronger and more resilient pharmaceutical manufacturing sector in Canada.
The Canadian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Exporters Alliance (CPMEA) – Alliance fabricants et exportateurs pharmaceutiques du Canada (AFEPC) represents pharmaceutical companies that manufacture in Canada. We have come together in an Alliance to tell the story of drug production in Canada and to raise awareness of the unique issues facing our industry.
Click here to contact us, or email us directly at info@cpmea.ca.