Government is constantly looking at new ways of how Malta can attract niche activities and expand existing pharmaceutical operations locally

Inspectors from the Medicines Authority are currently receiving training on sterile manufacturing that will enable them to meet the needs of both the local pharmaceutical industry and the demand to carry out third country inspections for sterile manufacturing facilities. The training is being given by leading experts in the pharmaceutical sector.

Addressing participants last week, Minister for Social Dialogue, Consumer Affairs and Civil Liberties Helena Dalli described this training course as a step towards consolidating the expertise required by the Medicines Authority in this area.

“The healthcare industry remains high on the government agenda and the government is constantly looking at new ways of how Malta can attract niche activities or expand existing pharmaceutical operations locally” stated Minister Dalli.

Dr Dalli said that Malta has the right ingredients to attract more investment and remain competitive, and this necessitates having highly educated personnel in the scientific field. Minister Dalli emphasised how the Medicines Authority is committed to continue supporting innovation and the attraction of companies engaged in the pharmaceutical industry.

She mentioned how the Medicines Authority is investing almost 10% of its budget on training, capacity building, international and European exposures for employees including support- ing those students undergoing Masters and Doctoral studies. This will ensure maintaining the high standards of the functions of the Authority and of the pharmaceutical industry and services in Malta.

Chair of the Medicines Authority Prof Anthony Serracino Inglott explained that during the last three years, the Medicines authority expanded its activities into more developed areas other than those of solid dosage forms. This included fifteen Good Manufacturing Practice Third Country inspections by a team of efficient and competent medicine inspectors.

Prof Serracino Inglott stated that the Medicines Authority established very good alliances with medicines agencies in Europe.

Sunil Doshi, a representative from the pharmaceutical sector, commended the Medicines Authority for its work in the pharmaceutical sector as well as for its vision towards expansion in different fields within the area.