Iraq is pushing forward with its plan to grow local drug manufacturing. This national effort already helps save over $1 billion each year. The Iraq pharmaceutical industry development is reshaping the country’s healthcare system.
Government officials say 34 pharmaceutical factories now run at full capacity. These factories produce many types of medicine used across Iraq. At the same time, 178 more applications are waiting for approval to open new factories.
This program started when the current government took office. It includes strong support for investors, including financial loans and production line guarantees. These steps help businesses build or expand drug production quickly.
The Ministry of Health also increased the prices it pays for locally made medicines. That decision raised national contract values from 144 billion to more than 600 billion dinars. It gives local producers a strong reason to invest more and grow faster.
The Iraq pharmaceutical industry development covers many types of medical products. These include tablets, syringes, surgical supplies, and intravenous solutions. The government helps factories get raw materials so they can run without delays.
Before the current government, Iraq had only 22 drug factories for decades. Now, the number has jumped to 34 in less than two years. These new factories provide nearly 25% of the value of Iraq’s previously imported medicines.
Al-Lami, a top government advisor, said that all local medicines follow strict global quality rules. The new factories use advanced technology and conduct clinical trials, especially for complex drugs. Some factories now make cancer and blood disease treatments through global partnerships.
The government wants every locally made drug to meet the highest safety and effectiveness standards. During the current term, Iraq began local production of dozens of new medications. These include drugs for hypertension, diabetes, and various antibiotics for children and adults.
The local production of 25 cancer drugs marks a key achievement in Iraq’s efforts. These are made with help from foreign companies using the latest pharmaceutical technologies.
The Iraq pharmaceutical industry development shows how the country is building a strong, self-reliant healthcare sector. By making more medicines at home, Iraq is cutting import costs and improving public health access.