drug supply chain

Donald Trump's initiative to prioritize American-made prescription drugs poses significant challenges for Indian pharmaceutical companies. The policy shift aims to reshore drug manufacturing, potentially disrupting the global supply chain and eroding the cost advantages that Indian firms have long enjoyed in the US generics market. Increased regulatory scrutiny and stricter compliance checks could further impact Indian drug exports.

Sakinaka police busted a mephedrone manufacturing factory in Vasai, seizing drugs worth Rs 8 crore and arresting three individuals. The operation, triggered by the arrest of Sadiq Shaikh with 53 gm of mephedrone, led police to the factory disguised as a cement block unit.

The US Food and Drug Administration seized fake Ozempic injections. This happened on April 9, 2025. Novo Nordisk warned about these fake drugs. Elon Musk mentioned using a similar drug. The FDA is investigating the seized injections. Novo Nordisk won a legal battle against knockoff versions. They are emphasizing patient safety. Musk's post highlighted the mainstream use of weight-loss drugs.

Chemist groups AIOCD and FGSCDA urge the central government to consult them before finalizing the OTC medicine list, opposing a COVID-19 rule enabling home delivery of medicines. They caution against online channels misusing the rule, leading to indiscriminate drug sales, potential misuse, and the spread of substandard medicines, posing public health threats.

To mitigate the impact of potential tariffs, market diversification strategies are essential. Indian pharmaceutical firms can explore opportunities in regions such as Europe, Africa, and Latin America, focusing on high-margin products while optimizing their supply chains.

Roche, a Swiss pharmaceutical giant, will invest $50 billion in the United States over the next five years, creating 12,000 jobs and expanding manufacturing, distribution, and research. This decision, following a similar move by Novartis, aims to strengthen Roche's US footprint and support innovation in medicines and diagnostics.

A forensic investigation confirmed that two adult tigers were poached in Madhya Pradesh, their parts smuggled internationally. The probe revealed a large-scale operation led by the Rajgond family, supplying tiger derivatives to buyers in China and Vietnam. Authorities are pursuing key suspects and investigating financial transactions, with INTERPOL's involvement anticipated in this globally connected wildlife crime.