Acino, a global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Switzerland, has recently been acquired by the Abu Dhabi investment and holding company ADQ, setting the stage for ambitious growth and expansion plans. With a focus on emerging markets and the Middle East, Acino is eyeing the GCC markets and beyond for potential growth opportunities. The company recently integrated the operations of Pharmax, a local pharmaceutical manufacturer, to leverage European and global manufacturing expertise with local knowledge and investment.
The pharmaceutical industry in the UAE has long relied on importing medicines, with a significant deficit in pharmaceutical exports. Acino aims to address this imbalance by ramping up its annual production capacity at its manufacturing facility in Dubai Science Park. With an annual capacity of over 250 million tablets and 87 million capsules, the company is making strides towards local manufacturing and reducing reliance on imports.
Acino’s strategy focuses on localization and bringing value-added products closer to customers in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE. The company remains open to expanding its facility in Dubai to accommodate commercial volumes and potential partnerships. Saudi Arabia is also a key market for Acino, with plans to strengthen its presence in the country as part of its expansion strategy.
The Dubai plant operated by Acino is certified with EU-GMP, SFA, and GCC certifications, ensuring high-quality standards and boosting trust in the regional pharmaceutical supply chain. This certification is expected to enhance service access for patients, improve quality of care, and lead to more favorable treatment outcomes. Acino is also looking into building export channels to ensure sustainability and viability amidst regulatory processes in building export potential.
Overall, Acino’s acquisition by ADQ and its focus on local manufacturing and export growth signal a positive outlook for the company’s future in the pharmaceutical industry. With strategic plans in place for expansion in the Middle East and beyond, Acino is poised to make a significant impact on the regional pharmaceutical market. As the company continues to invest in innovation, localization, and regulatory compliance, it is well-positioned to drive industry growth and improve patient outcomes in the region.
