Public production of biopharmaceuticals in Argentina

Abstract

The public production of medicines in Argentina has a long history and has persevered despite political and economic challenges. State laboratories were established across various public agencies with the goal of manufacturing affordable medicines to ensure the healthcare system's needs are met. Among the more than 40 public laboratories in the country, five specialize in biopharmaceutical production: Laboratorio de Hemoderivados, Instituto Nacional de Enfermedades Virales Humanas Dr. Julio I. Maiztegui, Instituto Nacional de Producción de Biológicos, Instituto Biológico Dr. Tomás Perón and Laboratorio Farmacéutico Conjunto de las Fuerzas Armadas. These laboratories produce those biopharmaceuticals that are considered strategic for the health system, including antivenoms, plasma proteins and vaccines. The importance of possessing the capabilities to manufacture essential medicines, such as recombinant vaccines, became evident during the COVID-19 pandemic. Advancements in biotechnology have led to rapid progress in technologies and processes for biopharmaceutical production in recent decades. Many state laboratories have modernized their facilities and processes, engaging in drug research and development initiatives. Consequently, Argentina possesses both current and potential capacities for the public production of essential biopharmaceuticals and vaccines.