Nearly 300 specialists from GCC countries are discussing the latest regulatory initiatives in the pharmaceutical industry and their relevance to the region at the ongoing second GCC Pharma Regulatory Summit, in Dubai, UAE, said a report.

The event opened yesterday (April 10) and will conclude later today (April 11).

Private sector participation, along with competitive laws and regulations, plays an important role in providing world-class healthcare to the UAE’s growing population, Dr Amin Al Amiri, assistant under-secretary for public health policy and licenses in the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, was quoted as saying in a Wam news agency report.

Speaking at the event, Al Amiri added that a focal point of government policy in the UAE is to expand pharmaceutical production and work closely with drug manufacturers and importers to enhance quality, transparency and customer happiness in line with the development vision of the country.

The two-day summit, being organised by Professionals Regulatory Affairs, PRA, has brought together more than 43 experts, including global pharmaceutical industry leaders as well as those associated with legislation and intellectual property rights, IPR, along with local and regional regulators and pharmaceutical company representatives.

The Ministry of Health and Prevention and Dubai Economy are part of the government entities joining the summit, while the regional pharmaceutical industry is represented by Julphar Gulf Pharmaceutical Industries, Tabuk Saudi Pharmaceutical Company and leading companies, among others.

The event provides a valuable forum for industry players to optimise efficiencies and enhance communication with regulators and importers, added the report.