Biopharmaceutical Alliance:
India, South Korea, the United States, Japan, and the European Union (EU) have formed a Biopharmaceutical Alliance to address drug supply shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The alliance aims to coordinate bio policies, regulations, and research and development support measures among participating countries.
- Inaugural meeting held in San Diego during the Bio International Convention 2024, emphasized the importance of a reliable and sustainable supply chain.
- The initiative originated from discussions between South Korea and the U.S. and expanded to include Japan, India, and the EU.
- Shortages of Covid-19 vaccines occurred globally, impacting various countries’ vaccination efforts.
- Drugs such as Remdesivir, used for treating severe Covid-19 cases, experienced shortages in many countries.
- As COVID-19 cases surged, many countries faced shortages of medical oxygen, crucial for treating severe respiratory symptoms.
- Shortages of PPE, including masks, gloves, and gowns, occurred worldwide, posing risks to frontline healthcare workers.
