Dhaka, March 22 -- Farrukh Khosru and Reza Mahmud :

Bangladesh's pharmaceutical industry faces the challenge of losing its Least Developed Country (LDC) status, expected in 2026.

This transition may result in the loss of its ability to produce generic drugs without patent restrictions. While the European Union may grant a grace period, the industry must prepare for potential patent claims from global pharmaceutical firms.

Despite its successes, the sector continues to encounter challenges, including a heavy reliance on imports for Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), with up to 85 per cent of its API demand still being met through imports from India and China.

The government has introduced initiatives to promote self-sufficiency ...