“These include achieving World Health Organization Maturity Level 3 (ML-3) status, implementing the latest policy framework for biologics and aligning the pharmaceutical sector with global scientific developments. The Government and the Directorate General of Drug Administration will take into account international scientific advances and provide appropriate guidance to the domestic pharmaceutical industry.”
Asked about the prime minister’s specific comments during the meeting, Abdul Muqtadir said, “He listened carefully to all the issues raised and gave clear instructions.”
Responding to a question about the number of pharmaceutical factories that have ceased operations or are currently struggling, the BAPI president said, “This is a complex matter and I do not want to discuss details at this stage. However, the government has indicated that steps will be taken to help companies facing difficulties return to a stable position.”
Abdul Muktadir also confirmed that discussions were held regarding the exclusion of Bangladesh from the least developed country (LDC) category and the implications of the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) agreement.
“We had a detailed discussion on how Bangladesh will address the challenges that arise after LDCs graduate,” he said.
TRIPS is a World Trade Organization agreement that establishes minimum global standards for the protection and enforcement of intellectual property rights.