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Zentiva and Euractiv Unite Policymakers for Health Policy Conference

On May 22, 2025, a significant event took place in Brussels as Zentiva contributed to the Euractiv Health Policy Conference. The company's CEO, Steffen Saltofte, took the stage alongside notable EU politicians to discuss urgent issues in pharmaceutical legislation. Their opening discussion was pivotal, focusing on how to guarantee equitable access to medicines for all.

Saltofte represented the interests of the European off-patent medicines sector, advocating for a unified approach to reshape pharmaceutical policy with patients at the center. He stated the importance of collaborative efforts among all healthcare stakeholders, from innovators to generic drug manufacturers and regulators, to ensure healthcare remains a fundamental right for everyone. His emphasis was clear: sustainable, robust, and trustworthy healthcare systems are essential.

During the COVID crisis and recent shortages, Zentiva's production facilities in the EU demonstrated resilience. However, Saltofte reiterated that ongoing resilience hinges on a systemic framework that ensures fair regulations, predictable pricing, and a political stance genuinely focused on patients. He underscored that for equitable access to medicines, it is crucial to invest in the healthcare system as a whole, advocating for affordable and accessible medications for all.

Key Takeaways from Zentiva's Discussion

1. Vital Access Equality and Timely Competition: Saltofte urged for pharmaceutical reforms that ensure rapid access to medicines for patients through fair competition. He highlighted that extended exclusivity periods could delay the entry of generics and biosimilars, impacting their financial accessibility and availability.

2. Resilience Through Economically Viable Manufacturing: The secure supply from Zentiva's production sites in Prague and Bucharest during recent crises emphasized the need for predictable pricing and investment incentives. Ensuring local production for essential medications should include a broad portfolio, ensuring equitable access for all patients dependent on daily medications.

3. Policy Alignment and Intersectoral Collaboration: Saltofte called for better alignment of industrial, pharmaceutical, and environmental policies to avoid conflicts that might affect drug supply and innovation in sustainable technologies.

4. Modern Framework for Sustainable Healthcare: He backed reforms advocating for digital tools, such as digital leaflets, to promote value-added medicines. He stressed that pricing systems must reflect actual costs and sustainability goals.

The discussion was moderated by Anna Gumbau from Euractiv and included other prominent figures like Rainer Becker from the European Commission and Members of the European Parliament, Stine Bosse and Ondřej Knotek. Forums like Euractiv are vital for gathering stakeholders to facilitate dialogue and foster advancements that ultimately benefit patients who rely on medications daily.

About Zentiva

Zentiva is dedicated to the health and wellbeing of all generations. This European company develops, manufactures, and distributes high-quality, affordable medicines to over 100 million individuals across more than 30 countries. With four wholly-owned production sites and a network of external manufacturing partners, Zentiva is committed to ensuring a secure supply of medications. The private equity-backed company has a sustainable growth strategy and ambitious future plans, driven by its team of over 5,000 talented individuals.

Zentiva’s history dates back more than 500 years to a small pharmacy in Prague, which is still operational today. Looking ahead, Zentiva is committed to building a sustainable future, ensuring that it continues to provide health and well-being for at least another 500 years.

For more information, visit Zentiva