The Economic Impact of LDC Graduation on Bangladesh's Pharmaceutical Industry and its Implications for Drug Prices in the Local Market

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• About

About the project

Partner: Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO)
Project duration: January 2024 – June 2024

Bangladesh's impending graduation from the group of least developed countries (LDCs) in 2026 holds significant implications for its pharmaceutical industry. The sector has thrived due to policies restricting multinational operations and pharmaceutical imports, coupled with the suspension of patent applications in 2008. Local production capacity has increased, fulfilling over 90% of domestic medicine demand and generating $180 million in export receipts. However, LDC graduation may lead to discontinued production or higher prices of patented medicines, reduced exports, diminished investment, and potential rises in drug prices, impacting low- and middle-income households. RAPID is conducting research with the support from FCDO to assess these economic impacts and propose recommendations to mitigate negative effects on the industry and ensure access to affordable medicines.

The study aims to assess the impacts of LDC graduation on the pharmaceutical industry, local drug prices, and access to affordable medicines, with the goal of developing recommendations to mitigate these impacts. The interconnectedness of drug prices, affordability, and industry profitability will be analysed comprehensively. The study will employ specific methodological approaches to address each research question within an overarching analytical framework, recognising that these issues are interlinked and require holistic examination for effective policy recommendations.

Sample Table

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