Chamber of Pharmacy calls for targeted support for pharmaceutical industry  

The Ghana Chamber of Pharmacy has appealed to the government to provide targeted support to the pharmaceutical industry, emphasising the need for policies and incentives to ensure the sector’s growth and sustainability.

This call comes in response to the 2025 budget presentation, where Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson highlighted unresolved salary issues affecting 321 pharmacists employed since June 2023.

During his budget address, Dr. Forson acknowledged the plight of the pharmacists, stating, “Mr. Speaker, during my engagement with the youth, it was revealed that 321 pharmacists employed since June 2023 have not received their salaries. We will take urgent steps to remedy this situation.”

While the Chamber commended the government for its commitment to addressing the salary concerns, it stressed that broader, industry-specific interventions are needed to strengthen the pharmaceutical sector.

In a statement signed by its CEO, Audrey Serwaa Bonsu, the Chamber expressed appreciation for the government’s efforts but highlighted the absence of targeted measures in the budget to support the pharmaceutical industry.

“Despite these positive steps, the budget lacks specific provisions to directly support Ghana’s pharmaceutical industry,” the statement read.

“To strengthen the sector and position Ghana as a regional pharmaceutical hub, we urge the government to provide direct support for the pharmaceutical industry.”

The Chamber outlined several critical areas requiring immediate attention, including:

Direct Support for Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: The Chamber called for clear policy interventions, tax incentives, and funding support to boost local pharmaceutical production. It argued that the industry’s role in public health and economic development makes such measures essential.

Acceleration of the Pharma Park Project: The government’s manifesto pledged support for the Pharma Park Project, a key initiative aimed at enhancing local pharmaceutical manufacturing. The Chamber urged the government to allocate dedicated funds and expedite the project’s implementation to create jobs, reduce import dependency, and improve access to affordable medicines.

Investment in Local Manufacturing: The Chamber emphasized the need for policies and financial incentives to boost domestic pharmaceutical production, reducing Ghana’s reliance on imported medicines.

Clear Implementation Roadmap: A concrete plan is needed to transition from heavy reliance on imported medicines to sustainable local production, ensuring long-term industry growth.

Establishment of Bio-Equivalence Laboratories: These facilities are critical for ensuring that locally manufactured drugs meet international standards, enabling Ghanaian pharmaceutical companies to compete in regional and global markets.

Stronger Collaboration: The Chamber called for enhanced engagement between the government and key stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector to develop long-term strategies for growth and innovation.

The statement concluded by reiterating the pharmaceutical industry’s potential to contribute significantly to Ghana’s economy and public health.

“The pharmaceutical sector is a cornerstone of healthcare delivery and economic development. With targeted support, Ghana can become a regional leader in pharmaceutical manufacturing, ensuring access to quality medicines and creating thousands of jobs,” the Chamber stated.

Credit: Citi News