Bangladesh's pharmaceutical industry has emerged as one of the country's most promising export sectors, with locally manufactured medicines now reaching more than 140 countries worldwide, Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Hossain said on Monday.
Speaking to journalists at the Health Ministry's conference room at the Bangladesh Secretariat, the minister said the growing global demand for Bangladeshi medicines reflects the country's increasing capacity and achievements in healthcare and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
"The export of medicines to more than 140 countries is a remarkable milestone for Bangladesh and demonstrates the confidence of the international market in our pharmaceutical products," he said.
Sakhawat Hossain noted that the country's pharmaceutical export earnings are expected to grow further once Bangladesh achieves greater self-reliance in vaccine production. He stressed that expanding local manufacturing of vaccines and medical equipment would strengthen the healthcare sector and reduce dependence on imports.
The minister said previous administrations had not made sufficient investments in the production and supply of critical medical equipment and vaccines, resulting in shortages of essential healthcare products such as ventilators and syringes during challenging periods.
"Despite those limitations, Bangladesh successfully overcame many healthcare challenges with the active support and investment of the private sector," he said.
Addressing concerns over the dengue situation, the minister announced that the Bangladesh Association of Pharmaceutical Industries (BAPI) has donated 100,000 units of intravenous (IV) saline to support the treatment of dengue patients across the country.
He said the Central Medical Store currently holds around 100,000 units of saline, while an additional 20,000 to 25,000 units are available at upazila-level health facilities.
"We have adequate preparations in place and are ready to ensure additional supplies if demand rises during the dengue season," he said.
The minister also spoke about the recent deaths of several newborns at Ad-din Hospital, saying the government has granted the hospital authorities two more days to respond to a show-cause notice.
"If the explanation is found unsatisfactory, the government will take appropriate legal action in accordance with the law," he said.
State Minister for Health Dr M A Muhit, who was present at the briefing, said the government had undertaken comprehensive preparations ahead of the dengue season, including measures to strengthen treatment facilities and ensure the availability of necessary medical supplies.
He said healthcare institutions across the country have been instructed to remain vigilant and prepared to provide timely treatment to dengue patients.
Emphasising the need for collective efforts, Muhit said the government, healthcare professionals, private sector stakeholders and the public must work together to strengthen the country's healthcare system and improve disease prevention and management.
He expressed optimism that coordinated initiatives would help control dengue infections while supporting the continued development of Bangladesh's healthcare sector and pharmaceutical industry.
