Coordination Meeting: MoC UM delivered the opening address

The coordination meeting on transitioning from the importation to the production of pharmaceuticals and medical equipment in Myanmar was held at the Meeting Hall of the Ministry of Commerce in Office No. (3), Nay Pyi Taw on November 24.

Union Minister for Commerce U Chit Swe attended and delivered an address. First, Union Minister U Chit Swe, in his address, stated that if domestic pharmaceutical factories can produce a wider and more complete variety of medicines domestically, it will lead to a reduction in the use of foreign currency for the State, and also increase job opportunities.

This would benefit not only the State and the private producers but also support the health sector of the people, achieving a "Win-Win-Win (Triple Win)". He mentioned that to enable increased production of various types of medicines domestically, relevant departments will provide necessary support for the importation of required raw materials and machinery, in accordance with the laws, regulations, and rules established by the respective departments.

He also urged the responsible officials from relevant departments and representatives from two associations attending this coordination meeting to exchange views and engage in open discussions. Following this, the Deputy Minister for Health, Dr. Aye Tun, and the Deputy Minister for Commerce, U Min Min, explained and discussed the current situation of service provision to the public, the ability to supply medicines, and the status of importing pharmaceutical supplies.

Subsequently, Permanent Secretaries, Directors-General, and Managing Directors from the attending departments, as well as responsible persons from the Myanmar Medical and Pharmaceutical Entrepreneurs Association and the Myanmar Medical and Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association, explained and discussed the operational status of their respective sectors.

The Union Minister then responded to the presentations, discussed further, and coordinated and integrated the necessary aspects.