Iran (IMNA) - Hosting 743 companies from 28 countries, the event highlighted Iran’s pharmaceutical sector as not only surviving but thriving on the international stage.
Iran’s pharmaceutical exports increased by 16% last fiscal year and grew by 11% in the first five months of 2025. The country now manufactures 95% of its consumed medicines and exports to over 40 countries across Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Middle East. With over 140,000 people employed and many firms shifting toward biotech and knowledge-based products, Iran’s pharmaceutical industry is transitioning from a generics-focused, state-supported sector to a more innovative and agile one.
The exhibition also acted as a diplomatic platform, attracting delegates from India, China, Switzerland, and the European Union to discuss joint ventures, licensing, and raw material access—essential in light of Iran’s limited access to international banking. India and China remain key partners, supplying raw materials and exploring Iran as a regional manufacturing hub.
This strategic cooperation is critical as global supply chains change and geopolitical tensions rise. Iran’s pharmaceutical sector aims to overcome sanctions-related challenges through enhanced international collaboration, quality improvements, and acquiring WHO-recognized certifications to increase export credibility.
Domestically, the exhibition boosted confidence as private and public investment in R&D, regulatory alignment, and infrastructure has surged over the past two years. The government positions pharmaceuticals as a pillar of post-oil economic diversification, generating thousands of jobs and supporting foreign exchange earnings.
Iran’s pharmaceutical industry is also focusing on biotechnology and specialty medicines, which offer higher margins and growth prospects. These investments align with global health trends and could establish Iran as a regional innovation hub.
Industry experts emphasize that sustained progress will require continuous R&D advancement, regulatory enhancements, and deeper global partnerships, potentially bringing technology transfers from leading international firms.
Importantly, Iran’s ability to produce most of its medicines domestically strengthens national healthcare security amid global drug shortages and supply chain disruptions.
Looking ahead, the government’s support combined with expanding exports and technological growth leads to an optimistic outlook for Iran’s pharmaceutical sector, which serves as a resilient economic pillar amid complex international challenges. The success of the exhibition and international participation signals readiness for expanded global engagement and increased contributions to health and economic diversification.
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