CPHI South East Asia visitor numbers expected to double as interest in drug supply chain security booms

06-Jul-2023 - Last updated on 06-Jul-2023 at 13:22 GMT

This year’s CPHI South East Asia is expecting a surge in international partnering with organizers expecting a record attendance of 8,000 visitors including a significant number from overseas – doubling last year’s figures.

The event being held next week from July 12-14 returns to Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in the heart of Bangkok. Improving drug supply chain security has been identified as the key macro trend driving growth in the region.

As well as the increase in visitors, the floor space has grown to 15,000 sqm, and the event will be showcasing nearly 340 exhibitors, up from 200 last year. Informa Markets, who run the event claim this upsurge provides further evidence of the rapid internationalization witnessed in the region in recent years.

The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been a key player involved in the evolution underway. Within the last two years, the association has made significant advancements.

Through its collaborative efforts and regional initiatives, ASEAN member countries have been actively working towards enhancing access to quality medicines and the establishment of regulatory harmonization within the region.

Ms. Rungphech Chitanuwat, regional portfolio director, Informa markets Thailand said: “What we are seeing in Southeast Asia is that many international pharma companies are looking to widen their Asia networks beyond just India and China. Manufacturers in the region are major beneficiaries due to lower costs and a rapidly improving reputation for well-developed regulatory pathways, security, and standards in manufacturing. In response to this greater international demand, we have introduced a special focus at this year’s event to explore the new regional approaches.”

A key highlight of this year’s event includes a Pharma Market Hub, conceptualised, and supported by ASEAN based Pharma Associations. The hub will serve as a platform for companies looking to expand into Southeast Asia by accessing a pool of potential buyers. Another feature, the Innovation stage will reveal ground-breaking sustainable packaging solutions for pharmaceuticals.

In total CPHI South East Asia will host of 50 content sessions in Thai and English on related themes. The sessions will cover topics like herbal medicine, animal nutrition and health, pharmaceutical packaging and a special session by FDA Thailand on regulatory framework in the region.

For the first time, CPHI SEA will also feature an ‘animal health’ zone, where exhibitors will be showcasing products formulated specifically for animal delivery. Additionally, a quiz show called Pharma Quest is being held to attract young talent, especially students from pharmaceutical sciences.

Finally, the business matchmaking programme, designed to support international partnering at the event will be back offering international attendees a tailored one-to-one matchmaking service, connecting them with suitable domestic and regional suppliers.