Indian pharmaceutical companies are exploring joint production and localisation opportunities in various Russian regions to boost supply security and reduce imports. Plans include building the largest API centre in Russia, fostering bilateral cooperation, and supporting Russia’s import substitution, with strong governmental and industrial backing.
Indian pharmaceutical companies are actively exploring opportunities to establish localised production facilities across various regions in Russia, signalling a significant step toward strengthening bilateral economic ties and enhancing pharmaceutical self-sufficiency. This development was highlighted during the “TIME: Russia-India. Mutual Efficiency” Business Forum held in Kazan in early October 2025.
Market Expansion: Several leading Indian pharmaceutical companies are negotiating joint production ventures with Russian counterparts to broaden supply and reduce import dependence.
Strategic Partnerships: Productive talks are underway aiming at manufacturing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and generics in Russia, leveraging India’s expertise in generics and Russia’s resource base.
Complementary Strengths: India provides skilled workforce and pharmaceutical know-how, while Russia brings technological assets and natural resources, creating a synergy promising mutual growth.
API Hub Ambition: Indian firms plan to set up the largest API production centre in Russia, ensuring local availability of medicines and further reducing reliance on imports.
Existing Presence: Companies like Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Sun Pharma, and Hetero Labs already have a footprint in Russia through representative offices or acquired plants, exemplifying expanding engagement.
Government Support: Russian regional bodies and investment agencies have shown enthusiasm to facilitate these ventures, ensuring regulatory support and easier implementation of bilateral agreements.
Sectoral Scope: Besides pharmaceuticals, Indian enterprises are encouraged to explore opportunities in engineering, agriculture, textiles, renewable energy, and creative industries within Russia.
Economic Independence: This localisation aligns with Russia’s broader import substitution policies and India’s aim to deepen economic cooperation with BRICS nations.
Forum Impact: The Kazan forum acted as a pivotal platform for dialogue, fostering joint ventures and cross-border industrial cooperation.
Future Outlook: With a value projected to triple by 2030, India’s pharma industry looks to Russia as its next growth frontier, creating jobs and delivering affordable medicines for both countries.
Indian pharma localisation in Russia emerges as a strategic partnership blending economic pragmatism with geopolitical alignment.
Sources: The Tribune, ANI News, Economic Times, Indian Defense News