Pharma Chamber and Regulator collaborate to make strides

~ Special workshop with the objective of achieving a common goal of improving standards of Pharmaceutical Regulatory framework in Sri Lanka  In an endeavor to better collaboration with the regulatory framework, shaping high-level public private partnerships (PPP) and arriving at consensual decisions, the Sri Lanka Chamber of the Pharmaceutical Industry (SLCPI) together with the National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA), held a forum to discuss and agree on several key areas that will improve effectiveness and efficiency in the pharmaceutical industry towards a healthcare roadmap for Sri Lanka. Key issues were deliberated on at the recently held forum, organized with the objective of encouraging open communication between SLCPI and NMRA to understand each other’s challenges and come up with workable solutions. The workshop, which was a joint effort of SLCPI and NMRA, also highlighted the importance of developing a robust platform where both institutions could share new ideas and suggestions for the betterment of the industry. Prior to the workshop, the Chamber requested all member organizations to submit recommendations, which formed the basis for the discussion and had positive outcome. A six-member regulatory sub-committee formed by the Chamber, which presented various regulatory challenges faced by the industry and the Regulator, correspondingly shared their points of view – some important decisions were made and key actionable points were taken to take it forward. Shyam Sathasivam, President, SLCPl said it was the first of many determined efforts that the Chamber would conduct with the Regulator; “It’s imperative that we work together to define and develop the healthcare regulatory framework of the Country. I would like to offer my sincere thanks to NMRA for actively participating in this workshop; responses from both parties have been very positive and we look forward to a long and fruitful business relationship”. Both parties engaged actively in the discussions which included the importance of nurturing Public Private Partnerships (PPP’s) to improve and maintain industry standards. Both SLCPI and NMRA welcomed the initiative and agreed to develop a clear road map for the healthcare sector. Speaking on the outcome of the workshop, Sathasivam went on to explain, “It was heartening to witness the openness and objective-driven dialogue that took place from which we were able to make several important decisions to ease off existing bottlenecks in the industry”. In a landmark decision, both groups said they would meet regularly to assess work in progress, for real time solutions and decisions. Overall, the forum helped cement rapport and build a conducive environment between Regulator and SLCPI. Prof. Asitha de Silva, Chairman, National Medicine Regulatory Authority said, “We thank the SLCPI for this effort which helped both parties to openly communicate and discuss several strategic measures that will help mitigate misconceptions and better educate and create awareness on healthcare needs.” About SLCPI: Founded in 1961, SLCPI represents over 70 members who account for over 90% of the private pharmaceutical industry across the value chain from manufacturers, importers, distributors and retailers, providing the Sri Lankan Patients with a range of over 800 pharmaceutical molecules from 364 manufacturers from across the world. The industry value chain has over 60,000 direct employees and over 240,000 indirect employees. The Chamber’s membership comprises major corporates in the local industry and is an affiliate of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce. Photo caption: (Above) SLCPI president Shyam Sathasivam addressing the gathering and NMRA Chairman Prof. Asitha de Silva at the workshop