Since ancient times, long preceding the dominance of oil, the land of Raphidain, known to the world as Iraq, has been synonymous with knowledge, development, and groundbreaking inventions. Among its many achievements, Iraqi scientists have left an indelible mark on various industries, including pharmaceuticals.
The trajectory of pharmaceutical development globally has been swift, and Iraq has not lagged behind. In 1954, Dr. Labib Rashid Mirza, along with a consortium of pharmacists, doctors, and investors, collaborated with the esteemed Belgian company UCB to establish Iraq's first pharmaceutical company. This landmark initiative marked the birth of the nation's pharmaceutical industry, inaugurated by King Faisal II in 1958.
In 2012, a significant milestone was reached when the Iraqi Pharmaceutical Factory's Board of Directors made the strategic decision to revamp operations. With an investment exceeding $20 million, the factory underwent a comprehensive overhaul, aligning with Current Good Manufacturing Practice (CGMP) standards. The result was a state-of-the-art facility equipped with cutting-edge technology and adhering to the most stringent quality control protocols.
The renewed focus on excellence bore fruit in 2017 when the factory garnered a slew of quality certifications from key global markets. Collaborations with multinational corporations further propelled innovation, with the facility housing advanced experimentation equipment to ensure the production of pharmaceuticals meets global benchmarks.
The impact of these advancements reverberated not only within Iraq but across the region. The factory emerged as a vital supplier, producing a staggering 12 million capsules monthly, meeting critical healthcare needs in neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia. Notably, the factory shifted the paradigm by locally manufacturing cancer treatments, obviating the need for costly imports.
In 2022, a significant stride was made with the establishment of a dedicated cancer department within the factory premises. Plans for expanding the product portfolio to encompass over 20 new substances underscore the commitment to enhancing patient care. Furthermore, the factory achieved a breakthrough in producing treatment for thalassemia, previously scarce within Iraq, thus democratizing access to essential healthcare.
With a portfolio boasting 55 medicines and products adhering to international standards, the Iraqi pharmaceutical industry's growth trajectory is undeniable. Plans are underway to introduce 25 new drugs and products, further cementing Iraq's position as a regional pharmaceutical powerhouse.
The financial ramifications of this success are substantial, with sales soaring from 20 billion Iraqi dinars in 2018 to an anticipated 70 billion dinars by 2022. Confidence in the quality of Iraqi pharmaceuticals has been pivotal in driving this exponential growth.
Looking ahead, Iraq aims not only to lead the region's pharmaceutical landscape but also to emerge as a significant exporter, collaborating with global entities to realize this vision. The journey of Iraq's pharmaceutical industry is a testament to resilience, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to advancing healthcare for all.
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