Acino strengthens operations in Saudi Arabia following sustained growth in the Middle East and Africa
Swiss pharma company plans to bring high-quality affordable medicines to patients in the kingdom, as part of its ongoing global mission, and in support of Saudi National Vision 2030.
30 March 2022, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – Acino, a leading provider of high-quality pharmaceutical products and services, today announced its expansion into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by establishing a legal entity and office in Jeddah. The move is part of the company’s growth strategy in the Middle East and Africa region in pursuit of its mission to deliver access to high-quality medicines for the benefit of patients.
The announcement was made during an event that took place at the office of the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA). Attending delegates included Dr. Sara Althari, Managing Director & Advisor at MISA; His Excellency Abdullah Al Masoud, Saudi Commercial Attaché to Switzerland; Steffen Saltofte, CEO, Acino; Dr. Andrew Bird, General Manager and Head of Region, Middle East, Turkey and Africa, Acino; and Fahad Al Otaibi, Country Manager for Saudi Arabia, Acino.
“Biotechnology and healthcare are at the forefront of our national priorities, and we are committed to partnering with global pharmaceutical companies to bring highest quality care and industry expertise to the Kingdom,” said Dr. Sara Althari, Biotech & Pharma Managing Director, Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia. “We welcome the expansion of Acino’s operations and footprint in the Kingdom and are deeply encouraged by the company’s commitment to invest in our healthcare ecosystem. Acino has a strong track record of providing advanced drug delivery technologies across the region, and we are confident that this is the beginning of a lasting and meaningful partnership between Acino and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”
In 2017, Acino marked its presence in the Kingdom by setting up a scientific office. The decision to expand further in the country follows a significant demand for its products and services. The company’s plans in Saudi Arabia include bringing global expertise to the Kingdom as well as hiring nationals as part of its investments in human resources and scientific activities.
Acino will also explore opportunities to collaborate with local manufacturers and produce select medications in the country. The Jeddah office will serve its mission to bring access to high-quality affordable medicines to both national and expatriate patients, as well as support the country’s upcoming Health Sector Transformation Programme as part of the National Vision 2030.
“Acino has made a commitment to the world to advance the development of healthcare by accelerating time-to-market and patient access for high-quality medicines that all stakeholders can trust,” said Steffen Saltofte, CEO, Acino. “We work closely with health ministries, manufacturers, and a broad range of healthcare professionals to enhance quality of care and improve treatment outcomes. Our arrival in Saudi Arabia has received warm support from the Ministry of Investment and builds on the renewed momentum from the KSA government in its plans to enhance the healthcare sector.”
About Acino
Acino is a Swiss pharmaceutical company with a clear focus on selected markets in the Middle East, Africa, Russia, the CIS Region, and Latin America. Acino is part of ADQ, an Abu Dhabi-based investment and holding company. The company delivers quality pharmaceuticals to promote affordable healthcare in the key emerging markets and leverages its high-quality pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities and network to supply leading companies through contract manufacturing and out-licensing. With the proven track record and in-depth knowledge of its markets, dedication to get medication to those who need it most, and scientific educational approach, Acino aims to become the preferred brand for patients and healthcare professionals.
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