Saidal and Abbott Labs Strengthen Pharmaceutical Cooperation, Focus on 'InfluVac'
Image: Echorouk
Takeaway
The deepened cooperation between Saidal and Abbott Laboratories signals a positive trend for Algeria's pharmaceutical sector, making it more attractive to foreign investment. International pharma companies should monitor Saidal's strategic partnerships and production expansions, as these developments could provide entry points into the Algerian market and access to the broader African market through increased intra-African trade.
Algeria's state-owned pharmaceutical company, Saidal, and U.S.-based Abbott Laboratories are deepening their collaboration, with a particular focus on the 'InfluVac' influenza vaccine and broader pharmaceutical innovation. The announcement followed a meeting between Saidal's Director-General, Professor Mourad Belkhelfa, and the Chargé d'Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Algeria, Marc A. Shapiro, at Saidal's Constantine 1 production site. The discussions centered on strengthening the existing partnership between the two companies to advance the pharmaceutical sector and provide innovative healthcare solutions for Algerian citizens.
Saidal was established in 1982 and has grown to become the largest pharmaceutical company in Algeria and one of the largest in Africa. In 1993, Saidal became a joint stock company, with the Algerian state holding 80% of the capital and the remaining 20% sold to institutional investors and individuals. The Algerian government has been actively promoting local pharmaceutical manufacturing to meet 70% of the national demand and reduce import costs, leading to savings of €800 million (~$880 million) on imports in 2021.
Saidal operates multiple production units across Algeria, specializing in generic drugs for various therapeutic areas, including cardiology, diabetes, anti-infectives, and CNS disorders. The company adheres to international quality standards, including Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Saidal is also expanding its production capabilities, with two new industrial units in Mostaganem slated for delivery by the end of June, focusing on eye-care drugs (11 million units per year) and veterinary products (5 million units per year). This $40 million project will create 120 jobs and further reduce import dependency.
The collaboration between Saidal and Abbott could lead to increased availability of influenza vaccines in Algeria, potentially reducing the country's reliance on imports. The partnership may also spur further investment in Algeria's pharmaceutical sector, attracting other international companies looking to tap into the growing demand for healthcare solutions in the region. Increased local production of pharmaceuticals aligns with the Algerian government's goal of achieving pharmaceutical self-sufficiency and becoming a regional hub for pharmaceutical exports.
Looking ahead, Saidal is committed to commissioning three new production units before the end of 2025. The company is also focusing on expanding its exports to African markets, leveraging Algeria's ratification of the treaty establishing the African Medicines Agency (AMA) to facilitate increased trade in pharmaceuticals between African countries. Investors should monitor Saidal's progress in expanding its production capacity and strengthening its partnerships with international companies like Abbott, as these developments could create new opportunities in Algeria's pharmaceutical sector.