US Health Secretary: India Plays Vital Role as a Pharmaceutical Supplier to the US

19 Aug, 2023

US Health Secretary: India Plays Vital Role as a Pharmaceutical Supplier to the US

A high-ranking official from his country is set to visit India in the near future to address the pressing issue of drug shortages, particularly essential medications for cancer treatment, in the United States. The official stated, "Our reliance on India for pharmaceuticals has fostered a strong and interdependent relationship. This collaboration ensures not only the availability of medications to our citizens but also extends globally." These remarks were made by Becerra during a press conference held in Gandhinagar. He was attending the G20 Health Ministers’ Meeting and participating in bilateral discussions with representatives from other nations.

The US is currently grappling with disruptions in the supply chain of critical cancer drugs, prompting concerns. When queried about potential meetings with Indian officials or industry leaders to mitigate the cancer drug shortage, Becerra affirmed that this was the rationale behind the impending visit of US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) Commissioner Robert Califf to India.

Becerra expressed, "Our objective is to eliminate any shortages in medication supply. Recent interruptions in the supply chain have affected certain cancer drugs. India is an indispensable collaborator in assisting the United States in meeting its pharmaceutical needs."

While the US aims to bolster its domestic production capacity for essential drugs, it acknowledges that this initiative alone may not suffice. Becerra stated, "Countries like India, as strong partners, enable us to ensure our citizens receive the necessary medications."

Addressing concerns raised by a US committee regarding the quality of medicines imported from India, the health secretary unequivocally emphasized the US's commitment to safety. He clarified, "We seek the assurance of safe and effective medications, both domestically and from India. This principle is applicable to India as well. The regulatory framework employed by the US is not intended as a hindrance for Indian companies; rather, it is a benchmark for companies wishing to market products in the US. We are open to collaboration with Indian companies that can meet these standards."

Becerra highlighted the transparency of US standards, affirming the US's desire for India to remain a valuable partner in pharmaceutical trade. He remarked, "For Indian companies to export to the US, adherence to US standards is imperative."

Commending Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Becerra noted the expanded role India has assumed in the healthcare sector following the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the need for international cooperation to prevent future global crises, citing the heightened significance of India's leadership in this arena.

When queried about the US's decision regarding India's proposed digital health platform for the G20 meeting, Becerra noted that discussions were ongoing due to potential risks in the absence of clear standards and guidelines. He acknowledged the importance of digital platforms, especially in the context of advancing AI, while underscoring the necessity of establishing safeguards to prevent misuse that could harm people. He concluded that the ongoing considerations would ensure the safe and effective deployment of such platforms.