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    HomeLocal NewsSri Lanka to Launch Strategic Two-Year Plan to Boost Pharmaceutical Production

    Sri Lanka to Launch Strategic Two-Year Plan to Boost Pharmaceutical Production

    In response to mounting challenges in maintaining a continuous supply of essential medicines for the country’s healthcare system, Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa has instructed the State Pharmaceutical Corporation (SPC) to take immediate measures to significantly increase Sri Lanka’s pharmaceutical production capacity within the next two years. 

    The Minister issued these directives during his visit to the Sri Lanka State Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Corporation (SPMC) in Ratmalana. He outlined the key issues hindering the steady supply of medicines, including a shortage of drug suppliers, unreliable deliveries from contracted suppliers, and global supply chain disruptions. These challenges have led to periodic shortages of essential medications in government hospitals. 

    During the visit, Dr. Jayatissa conducted a comprehensive review of the obstacles affecting the rapid importation of raw materials necessary for pharmaceutical production. He engaged with officials to identify existing weaknesses and emphasized the urgency of implementing strategic plans to enhance production capacity without delay. 

    Highlighting the significance of the SPMC, the Minister described it as Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest government-owned pharmaceutical manufacturing institution and a cornerstone of the nation’s public health system. He underscored its role as a vital public service that extends beyond profit-oriented objectives. 

    Additionally, Dr. Jayatissa announced plans to expand the state pharmacy network to address the increasing demand in urban areas across the country. 

    The Minister held extensive discussions with the chairman and senior management of the SPMC to ensure the institution’s vision, initially established through a gift from the Japanese government, is implemented more formally and transparently. 

    During his inspection, Dr. Jayatissa assessed the corporation’s pharmaceutical production processes, raw material procurement, research activities, and drug distribution systems. He issued specific instructions to enhance these areas, focusing on corporate social responsibility, laboratory infrastructure, pre-production processes, marketing strategies, and human resource development. 

    As part of his visit, the Minister toured various sections of the SPMC premises and held discussions with staff members to understand the challenges they encounter in carrying out their responsibilities. 

    The event was attended by SPMC Chairman Professor Jayantha Vijayabandara, General Manager Asanti Athuraliya, Deputy General Managers, and other staff members. 

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