Commerce secretary urges pharma industry to achieve 90% domestic raw material supply

India’s pharmaceutical industry, a global supplier of affordable medicines, faces challenges due to heavy reliance on imported raw materials. At a recent industry event, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal called for greater self-reliance to ensure resilience against global disruptions.

Key Points From The Address

• Domestic Production: Agrawal urged the sector to meet 80–90% of raw material needs locally.
• Resilient Supply Chains: Emphasized insulating supply chains from geopolitical risks.
• Market Diversification: Highlighted the need to expand exports beyond current markets.
• Innovation Focus: Encouraged moving towards a value-driven, innovation-led industry.

Why This Matters

• India exports medicines to nearly 200 countries, but supply chain vulnerabilities remain.
• Global uncertainties, including trade disruptions, highlight the need for domestic capacity.
• Strengthening local production will reduce dependence on imports and enhance India’s global competitiveness.

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal calls for 80–90% domestic raw material production

•⁠  ⁠Addressed Chintan Shivir 2026 organized by Pharmexcil

•⁠  ⁠Stressed resilient supply chains and market diversification

•⁠  ⁠India exports medicines to nearly 200 countries

•⁠  ⁠Focus on innovation and value-driven growth in pharma sector

Sources: The Economic Times, BW Businessworld, The Week