Egypt's state-owned Drug Holding Company (HoldiPharma) has entered into a strategic joint venture with US-based Dawah Pharmaceuticals to manufacture and export pharmaceutical products and nutritional supplements to international markets, with an initial focus on North America and Europe. The partnership represents a significant milestone in Egypt's efforts to expand its pharmaceutical presence globally.
Joint Venture Structure and Ownership
Under the agreement announced by the Egyptian Cabinet, HoldiPharma will hold a 40 percent stake in the new company, while Dawah Pharma will control the remaining 60 percent. The venture aims to expand Egypt's pharmaceutical footprint globally, with exports managed through the newly formed entity.
Public Business Sector Minister Mohamed Sheemy emphasized that the partnership signals growing global recognition of the quality of Egyptian pharmaceuticals, especially those produced by HoldiPharma and its subsidiaries. He cited recent upgrades in production infrastructure and adherence to international Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) as key enablers for this collaboration.
Product Portfolio and Manufacturing Capabilities
The joint venture will produce a diverse range of pharmaceutical products, including ampoules, sterile injectables, ophthalmic solutions, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and nutritional supplements. The partnership will also incorporate advanced manufacturing technologies, including pre-filled syringes, transdermal patches, tablets, and syrups.
These enhanced capabilities are expected to boost exports and support the long-term growth of HoldiPharma and its affiliates. The venture's technological advancement represents a significant step forward in Egypt's pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity.
Historic US Market Entry
The first phase of the agreement includes exporting six nutritional supplement products to the US market, marking HoldiPharma's debut entry into the United States. This achievement represents the first time in the Holding Company's history to reach the US market after meeting rigorous international standards and requirements.
Minister Sheemy confirmed that this milestone demonstrates Egypt's ability to compete in highly regulated pharmaceutical markets and opens new channels for global expansion.
Regulatory Compliance and Market Access
The new company will operate in full compliance with international regulatory standards, including those of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA). This adherence to stringent regulatory benchmarks positions Egyptian pharmaceuticals for broader market access in both developed and emerging economies.
The regulatory compliance strategy will boost the global competitiveness of Egyptian pharmaceuticals not only in the high-demand markets of Europe and North America but also in emerging markets across Africa and Asia. This comprehensive approach to regulatory standards represents a strategic advantage for the joint venture's expansion plans.
