RIYADH, Jan 28 (Reuters): Localising vaccine manufacturing and improving the health of Saudi citizens are among the key goals of a new national biotechnology strategy, launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Thursday.
The new initiative also aims to safeguard the environment, achieve food and water security, and solidify the Kingdom's position as a global leader in the sector, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
One of the major focuses of the initiative is localising vaccine manufacturing to increase the Kingdom's self-sufficiency and ensure timely access to these medicines for its citizens.
Furthermore, the program targets a 3.0 per cent contribution of the biotechnology sector to the non-oil gross domestic product by 2040, with a cumulative impact of SR130 billion ($34.66 billion), in addition to providing thousands of high-quality opportunities and jobs. These initiatives are aligned with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives.
"Localization and biomanufacturing play a vital role in driving the strategy forward, as Saudi Arabia aims to establish itself as the primary biotechnology hub in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region," said the SPA report, adding: "Developing advanced biopharma manufacturing capabilities and establishing a cutting-edge local end-to-end bio-manufacturing platform are crucial steps."
The program focuses on four strategic directions, including vaccines, with an emphasis on localising vaccine production, exporting, and leading innovation in the field.
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