by MARGARET EWEN
Last week, GSK announced its intention to open manufacturing plants in various African countries. This is not a surprise given the expanding consumer market in Africa, which provides business opportunities for multi-national pharmaceutical companies. Governments, however, must be vigilant in ensuring this does not force local generics manufacturers out of the market.
HAI calls on governments in Africa and elsewhere in developing countries to make the best use of investment opportunities by requiring multi-national companies to form joint ventures with local manufacturers. This will help develop the capacity of local companies and ensure the supply of generics.