Uzbekistan may localize production of Egyptian hepatitis C drugs.

Uzbekistan is considering establishing local production of Egyptian hepatitis C medications.

According to a published report, meeting participants discussed the potential for cooperation between the company and Uzbekistan, attracting investment, technology transfer, and establishing local production of medications for the treatment of hepatitis C.

The corporation comprises nine organizations employing over 5,700 people. Annual sales exceed 345 million packages, and its products are exported to 57 countries. With a market share of 13.2%, Pharco is the leader in Egypt's pharmaceutical industry.

According to the agency, Mohamed Farouk highlighted the corporation's contribution to the fight against hepatitis C in Egypt. The company has launched production of affordable antiviral medications, including the generic sofosbuvir "Gratisovir" and the licensed drug "Ravidasvir." This has reduced the cost of a full course of treatment from tens of thousands of dollars to less than $100, with treatment efficacy reaching 99%.

Large-scale supplies of these drugs under the state program have enabled millions of citizens to be cured. As a result, Egypt became the first country in the world to be awarded the official World Health Organization Gold Certificate for successfully achieving the hepatitis C eradication target.

PHARCO Corporation is already collaborating with several private pharmaceutical companies in Uzbekistan. A systematic partnership on Gratisovir and Ravidasvir could ensure direct supplies, technology transfer, and production at Uzbek pharmaceutical facilities.

Following the meeting, the parties agreed to hold online talks with the Agency for the Development of the Medical and Pharmaceutical Industry of Uzbekistan, Uzbek private pharmaceutical companies, and PHARCO Corporation. The Egyptian side also expressed its willingness to send a delegation to Uzbekistan for further discussions.