The Sri Lanka Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (SLPMA) issued a call to action urging all stakeholders within the local pharmaceutical industry to shape a future where Sri Lanka emerges as a trusted, high-quality, and export-driven pharmaceutical manufacturing hub.
The launch of the SLPMA’s ‘National Call to Produce Medicine in Sri Lanka coincided with the Association’s annual general meeting, which sought to drive a unified, multi-stakeholder dialogue on transforming Sri Lanka’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector into a self-reliant, export-ready thrust industry.
A landmark moment of the evening was the formal handover of SLPMA’s national policy proposal, an inspiring blueprint that outlined the rationale for developing Sri Lanka’s pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, a bold vision for its future, and a set of actionable recommendations.
This proposal, presented to key government officials, laid the foundation for a transformative new chapter in Sri Lanka’s healthcare and industrial development. It captured the very essence of the event’s theme: “A National Call to Produce Medicine in Sri Lanka – with Care, Trust, and Unity.” The goal is to develop a thriving pharmaceutical industry that simultaneously addresses public health needs, pharmaceutical security, saves foreign currency, creates technical jobs, and drives exports, supported by long-term policies linking industrial growth with health priorities.
SLPMA seeks to align all key stakeholders, from policymakers to industry leaders, in building a robust, self-sustaining pharmaceutical sector for Sri Lanka.
SLPMA President Nalin Kannangara said: “Today marks a landmark moment in our journey. Local manufacturers have held firm and remained resilient over the years, despite many challenges. Yet, this industry has not unleashed its full potential. With the right policy consistency and regulatory backing, we can build a true thrust industry- one that assures long-term pharmaceutical security for the nation.”
SLPMA Senior Vice President Dinesh Athapaththu said: “This isn’t just about policy, it’s about purpose and responsibility. As an industry, we believe we should be held accountable, and we seek the right support to meet that responsibility. We offer a clear roadmap to deliver high-quality yet affordable healthcare, retain our talent, and grow exports. I firmly believe it’s not too late, Sri Lanka can still rise to this national mission.”
