The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) notes the decision taken by Member States at the World Trade Organization (WTO) to continue to consider an extension of a waiver of intellectual property rights on COVID-19 therapeutics and diagnostics.

IFPMA expresses its disappointment that further time and energy will be devoted to a discussion that fails to address the real challenges to access.

Evidence shows there is no reason to extend a waiver on COVID-19 therapeutics and diagnostics. Instead, if adopted, the proposal will have long-term adverse effects on the current pipeline for COVID-19 therapeutics and for future pandemics. While these discussions continue, the ongoing uncertainty is unwelcome.

Incentives provided by Intellectual Property (IP) protections have underpinned the biopharmaceutical industry’s ability to quickly respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Tweet this

Incentives provided by Intellectual Property (IP) protections have underpinned the biopharmaceutical industry’s ability to quickly respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. These remain critical for effective accelerated research, development and manufacturing of COVID-19 vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics, and aid voluntary partnerships and technology transfer. IP protections are also critical for development of new COVID-19 medicines and for future health emergencies. R&D and manufacturing partnerships have resulted in global equitable access to COVID-19 therapeutics at breakthrough speed.

There are real systemic infrastructural issues that need to be addressed and we urge Member States to address these trade and health related concerns. IFPMA and its members will continue to share their experience to date and are at the disposal of Member States, the WTO and other stakeholders.

About IFPMA

The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) represents over 90 innovative pharmaceutical companies and associations around the world. Our industry’s almost three million employees discover, develop, and deliver medicines and vaccines that advance global health. Based in Geneva, IFPMA has official relations with the United Nations and contributes industry expertise to help the global health community improve the lives of people everywhere. For more information, visit ifpma.org.

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Media Contact

Elliot Dunster e.dunster@ifpma.org