ThinkTankWeekly

The Localization Prescription

CSIS | 2026-08-08 | middle_east

Topics: Middle East, Trade

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English Summary

The Middle East's high dependence on imported pharmaceuticals creates significant strategic vulnerability, prompting regional governments to launch major localization initiatives like Saudi Vision 2030. Despite these investments, net pharmaceutical imports have recently risen due to sustained demand for newer, high-value patented medications. However, the impending expiration of numerous drug patents in 2026 presents a critical window of opportunity for expanding regional generic production and achieving true self-sufficiency. Policy efforts must therefore pivot from mere investment to actively capitalizing on these patent cliffs to build robust supply chains resilient to geopolitical disruptions.

中文摘要

中東地區對進口藥品的高度依賴,造成了顯著的戰略脆弱性,促使區域政府啟動了沙特願景2030等大型在地化倡議。儘管進行了這些投資,但由於市場持續對新型、高價專利藥物的需求,淨藥品進口量近期仍有所上升。然而,眾多藥物專利預計於2026年到期,這為擴大區域性仿製藥生產和實現真正的自給自足提供了關鍵的機會窗口。因此,政策努力必須從單純的投資轉變為積極利用這些「專利懸崖」(patent cliffs)來建立能抵禦地緣政治衝擊的穩健供應鏈。

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