Dear Friends,

Founded in 1972, BAPI is the nation’s leading trade association for the manufacturers of pharmaceutical products and active pharmaceutical ingredients, and it has remained committed to improving the health and wellbeing of the people by providing a wide range of treatment options and making them much affordable. Over the years, BAPI has protected the interests of member companies through a number of initiatives eventually for the larger benefit of the common people.

Pharmaceutical industry in Bangladesh has progressed well over the last 4 decades and the country is nearly self-sufficient in pharmaceuticals production with 98% of its demand being met by domestic manufacturers. At present, this is one of the most technologically advanced sectors in the country employing probably the highest number of white collar professionals. Since the promulgation of Drug Policy in 1982, the sector has grown from about $20 Mn to almost $3.2 Bn. Thanks to the private sector for its significant investment in building capabilities– both infrastructure and people- to bring this industry to compete in the global marketplace. Bangladeshi medicines are being exported to many countries in the world and leading players are making forays into the most regulated markets of US, Canada, EU and Australia which are known for strict regulation and highest quality standards. In view of its huge export potential, Pharma has been declared as the thrust sector in Bangladesh with an aim to diversify country’s export portfolio. And very importantly, WTO/TRIPS allows Bangladesh to enjoy the pharma patent waiver which has been recently extended for another few more years till 2033. This would give the pharmaceutical industry a tremendous boost to realize its actual potential while keeping the price of medicines within the reach of our people.