Viatris sets a pioneering trend in local manufacturing

Pharma News: In a first for a prescription medicine manufacturer and exporter in Australia, Viatris has incorporated the iconic “Australian Made, Australian Grown” (AMAG) logo on a large range of medicines manufactured locally. The initiative is already in motion, with nearly 50 products produced at the state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Carole Park, Queensland, now prominently displaying the AMAG logo. This number is set to rise, with a target to have half of Viatris’ locally made products adorned with the emblem by the close of 2023.

With the capacity to produce approximately 4 billion doses of high-quality medicines, Viatris caters not only to the Australian population but also exports its products to over 40 global markets.

During a recent public hearing held by the House Standing Committee on Industry, Science, and Resources regarding the future of advanced manufacturing in Australia, Sylvain Vigneault, Country Manager for Australia at Viatris, took centre stage to shed light on the company’s endeavours. He proudly disclosed that Viatris already manufactures 35% of its commercialised products within Australia, championing local production. However, he also highlighted the policy challenges that Australian manufacturing faces and the pressing need for a collective effort to improve the industry’s landscape.

To address critical medicine supply issues, Mr Vigneault proposed a strategic partnership and open dialogue with Australian medicine manufacturers. He stressed the paramount importance of identifying essential medicines that should never be out of stock and exploring opportunities for their local production.

He also touched upon the repercussions of the 2008 price disclosure process on manufacturing capabilities. He underscored the need for sustainable pricing for vital drugs and advocated for a comprehensive approach that transcends mere price considerations.

“We need to protect critical drugs from a price perspective and ensure a level playing field. We want to manufacture drugs that are not just for Australia but also for the global market,” he emphasised.

In a testament to their commitment, Mr Vigneault expressed his delight in including the Australian Made logo on their locally manufactured and sold products, symbolising a steadfast investment in Australia.

“Although Australia has recently experienced reduced manufacturing capabilities across many industries, Viatris Australia is proud that our local manufacturing capability creates increased and resilient capacity for the production and supply of high-quality medicines,” he said.

Products bearing the revered AMAG logo will encompass medicines spanning over 10 major therapeutic areas, addressing a wide spectrum of noncommunicable and infectious diseases, from cardiovascular health and antidepressants to well-known antibiotics.

Rob Elliot, Head of Operations ANZ, celebrated this significant milestone, saying, “We are proud that our medicines for Australia will carry the Aussie Made logo. At Viatris our commitment to producing high-quality medicines is embraced across our entire global network which, in turn, supports building a resilient supply chain to reach more patients.”

He added “This is a commendation to our colleagues at Carole Park who are dedicated to producing high-quality medicines, furthering our mission to empower people worldwide to live healthier at every stage of life.”

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