New expanded committee for IPASA

The other Exco committee members are Dougy Kevan, CEO of Norgine; Frans Labuschagne, CEO of Bayer; Darryl Langford, CEO of Merck and Luciano Marques, CEO of Novartis.

The association was formed in April 2013, bringing together all the research-based pharmaceutical companies that had previously belonged to either the Pharmaceutical Industry Association of South Africa (PIASA) or Innovative Medicines SA (IMSA). The new entity was created to support and promote the highest standards of research, development and production in the supply of quality medicines, vaccines and biotechnology, as well as to advance ethical codes of practice for the pharmaceutical industry.

The association now represents 25 leading pharmaceutical companies. Only companies that conduct their own research and development qualify for membership. It provides the industry with a single platform for communicating with government, medical industry stakeholders, communities and consumers and continually engages stakeholders in both the private and public sectors with the objective of providing universal access to quality pharmaceutical products.

"The association is committed to fostering an environment that supports excellence in the pharmaceutical industry and provides access to quality medicines for all of South Africa's people," says Dr Kedijang. "It is an important forum for engaging various stakeholders on issues such as research, policy and quality control and in this way, protects both the integrity of the industry and the interests of consumers.

"It adheres to both international and local best-practice guidelines and this demonstrates its members' commitment to operating within the framework of the highest professional and ethical standards."

As a member of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA), the association and its members uphold the research and development of safe, high-quality and effective disease treatments designed to improve patients' health and prolong life. Members also make a substantial contribution to the South African region by investing in local healthcare and by ensuring continued access to new medicines. In addition, pharmaceutical companies stimulate the local economy by providing employment, paying taxes, supporting skills development and facilitating the transfer of technology.

"Access to quality medicines is a fundamental requirement for an effective healthcare system and association members are committed to researching and developing pharmaceuticals that are tailored to meet each individual's healthcare needs. More than that, they are committed to being good corporate citizens and to being active and engaged members of the greater South African community," concludes Dr Kedijang.