Roche Considering Production in Ukraine
Ukraine may soon become a platform for the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) and advanced medical diagnostics, according to Mykhailo Radutsky, Head of the Parliamentary Committee on National Health.
He announced the results of a meeting with representatives of the Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche, one of the world’s leading biopharma companies.
Radutsky said the discussion focused on two strategic cooperation areas:
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Localization of active pharmaceutical ingredient production in Ukraine;
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Creation of a modern diagnostic laboratory for oncology patients.
“Ukraine is interested in having leading international pharmaceutical companies localize production in our country. Localization means jobs, taxes, and most importantly — medical security. It ensures access to innovative medicines and technologies even in times of crisis,” — emphasized Mykhailo Radutsky.
State Support for Roche Investment
The Ukrainian government has pledged full support for Roche’s potential investment projects, including:
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facilitation at the level of parliament and embassies;
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preferential conditions within industrial parks;
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access to the ‘investment nanny’ mechanism for strategic investors.
According to Radutsky, the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the dangers of global dependence on Asian suppliers, especially from India and China, which led to shortages of critical medicines in Europe.
To address this, the European Parliament is developing the Critical Medicines Act, aimed at strengthening the continent’s pharmaceutical resilience.
Ukraine has already submitted proposals to integrate into this framework and position itself as a strategic EU partner in the production of essential medicines.
Steps Toward European Standards
Ukraine is working on the mutual recognition of GMP and GDP certificates, which will align the quality of Ukrainian pharmaceuticals with EU standards even before formal EU accession.
This step is expected to enhance Ukraine’s competitiveness in the European medical supply chain and attract further investment from international pharmaceutical leaders.
Improving Cancer Diagnostics in Ukraine
A significant part of the talks focused on improving oncology diagnostics.
Due to the shortage of modern laboratories, Ukrainian patients often send test samples abroad, bearing high personal costs.
Roche’s proposed project involves establishing a state-of-the-art diagnostic laboratory in Ukraine that will provide:
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a full diagnostic cycle for cancer patients;
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therapy effectiveness monitoring;
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rapid testing and diagnosis.
After contracting with the National Health Service of Ukraine (NHSU), such diagnostic services will be free of charge for patients.
“We continue to work so that investors open production facilities in Ukraine and patients receive quality medicines and services,” — concluded Radutsky.
