Amman, November 11 (QNA) - Jordan's pharmaceutical industry continues to strengthen its presence in regional and international markets, capitalizing on its expanding manufacturing and research capabilities, accumulated technical expertise, and commitment to global quality standards. This trajectory has transformed the sector into a high-value industrial driver that helps diversify exports and support economic growth.

The growth of Jordanian pharmaceutical exports, which reached approximately $905 million in 2025, and the expanding reach of its products to roughly 85 markets worldwide demonstrate the sector's ability to transition from meeting domestic market needs to competing internationally.

In this context, Mazen Darwazeh, Executive Vice Chairman and Deputy CEO, MENA at Hikma Pharmaceuticals and a member of the Jordanian Senate, emphasized that Jordan's pharmaceutical industry has successfully established a prominent foothold on the global industrial map. This achievement is underpinned by cumulative manufacturing expertise, qualified human capital, continuous investments in research and development, and a steadfast commitment to international quality and manufacturing standards.

In an interview with Qatar News Agency (QNA), Darwazeh stated that the Jordanian experience in pharmaceuticals serves as a model for the capacity of national industries to transition from catering to local markets to competing globally. He noted that Jordanian pharmaceutical products reach approximately 85 markets worldwide, while exports of pharmaceutical preparations totaled about $905 million in 2025, compared with roughly $862 million in 2024, marking a 5.1 percent increase.

He added that Jordanian pharmaceutical exports maintained their upward momentum during the first quarter of 2026, reaching approximately $207 million, up from $176 million during the same period the previous year—a 17.6 percent increase. This growth reflects surging external demand for Jordanian pharmaceuticals and their robust competitiveness in regional and international markets.

Darwazeh explained that this progress stems from long-term investments in production and research capabilities, strengthened quality and oversight frameworks, the professional development of human capital, and the cultivation of international partnerships. He emphasized that the pharmaceutical sector has emerged as a high-value national industry, generating employment opportunities while contributing significantly to export diversification and economic vitality.

Regarding prospects for bilateral cooperation between Jordan and Qatar in the pharmaceutical sector, Darwazeh noted that Jordanian medicines are readily available in Qatari pharmacies and hospitals. He expressed optimism regarding promising opportunities to deepen their footprint in the Qatari market, supported by their stellar reputation for quality and reliability, as well as the robust and growing economic and commercial ties between the two countries.

He added that expanding cooperation with relevant health and pharmaceutical authorities in Qatar will create broader avenues for Jordanian products, fostering strategic partnerships, facilitating expertise sharing, and meeting market demands in a manner that serves the mutual interests of both countries.

Highlighting the evolution of Jordan's pharmaceutical landscape, Darwazeh noted that the sector comprises around 30 manufacturing facilities and generates nearly 10,000 direct jobs. Its products reach dozens of international markets, covering a broad spectrum of therapeutic needs, including treatments for chronic diseases, oncology, infectious diseases, and neurological disorders, among others.

Furthermore, he pointed out that the accession of the Jordan Food and Drug Administration (JFDA) to the Pharmaceutical Inspection Co-operation Scheme (PIC/S) in early 2026 represents a pivotal milestone. The move bolsters international recognition of Jordan's regulatory framework, reinforces external market confidence in products manufactured in the Kingdom, and unlocks additional horizons for national companies to expand their export footprint.

Darwazeh stressed that preserving the achievements of Jordan's pharmaceutical industry requires sustained investment in research, development, and modern technology, alongside the advancement of high-value products, the strengthening of international partnerships, and the provision of a regulatory and investment-friendly environment that fosters growth and expansion.

The Jordanian pharmaceutical experience underscores that long-term investment in R&D, quality assurance, and talent development forms the bedrock for building a globally competitive national industry that drives economic growth and export diversification. It also highlights the imperative of continuously upgrading manufacturing and research capabilities, adopting modern technologies, and forging international partnerships to secure the sustained growth of Jordan's pharmaceutical sector and cement its standing as a vital pillar of the national economy. (QNA)