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Zentiva's Initiative for Sustainable Healthcare in Europe

In a bold step toward transforming healthcare in Europe, Zentiva has echoed the urgent need for reform in the pharmaceutical sector. With a clear stance that health is a fundamental right, not a privilege, Zenitva aligns itself with the European Union’s vision of ensuring inclusivity and access to essential medicines for all citizens. As ongoing dialogues about pharmaceutical legislation reform continue, Zentiva emphasizes the importance of placing health at the forefront of policy decision-making.

The company advocates for the implementation of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3, which focuses on health and well-being. This goal is intrinsically linked to numerous other sustainability objectives. Zentiva is calling upon EU health ministers to take decisive actions that prioritize sustainable healthcare, protecting the interests of those who rely on affordable medicines every day.

Zentiva asserts that this issue transcends mere policy; it is a matter of ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their location, has access to the medications they require. This encompasses tackling critical issues such as medicine shortages, revitalizing production within Europe, and crafting health systems that are resilient and equitable.

Additionally, the company expresses its commitment to nurturing a robust pharmaceutical industry for the future, highlighting the need for investments aimed at sustainability. This includes initiatives like reducing carbon emissions and enhancing the use of renewable energy within production facilities.

During recent discussions with Olivér Várhelyi, the European Commissioner for Health, representatives from the over-the-counter pharmaceuticals sector, embodied by Zentiva and its partners, explored various perspectives. A clear message emerged from these discussions: it is time for EU decision-makers to translate dialogue into actionable strategies that bolster access to, affordability of, and production of essential medicines in Europe.

Steffen Saltofte, the CEO of Zentiva, emphasizes, “Europe requires resilient and equitable legislation that effectively serves its populace. Our discussions with the European Commission are a step towards that commitment. The over-the-counter pharmaceutical industry is dedicated to investing in Europe and supporting European patients. However, the EU must play its part by providing clear incentives, channeling support towards domestic manufacturing, and eliminating obstacles that can marginalize those who rely on our medications.”

Zentiva also calls for a united effort among EU policymakers to create a cohesive market that adheres to harmonized principles. This aims to facilitate expedited access to medicines, minimize unnecessary regulatory overlaps, and ensure that patients across the EU receive equal treatment.

In addition, the company supports measures to ensure affordable treatments and advocates for competitive dynamics starting right after patent expiration. The relevance of harmonized and clarified Bolar exemptions cannot be understated, as they are vital for reaching these goals.

Zentiva also suggests enhancing coordination to prevent medication shortages through improved European collaboration and the application of digital tools. The company seeks to encourage innovative and cost-effective development of over-the-counter drugs that can address significant health and environmental challenges.

Furthermore, it proposes the reinforcement of regulations concerning critical medicines while extending their principles to the broader pharmaceutical sector to safeguard the health and well-being of European citizens.

Zentiva's insights underline the importance of revisiting the environmental legislation linked to the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (UWWTD), as unmanaged policies can adversely impact the availability, accessibility, and affordability of essential medicines.

Statistics indicate that 70% of prescribed medications are generics, with 90% of critical medications being classified as such. With 40% of available products lacking viable therapeutic alternatives (IQVIA, 2024), ensuring access to and production of affordable medications in Europe is crucial. Delaying reforms that serve Europeans who depend on vital medications is not an option.

About Zentiva

Zentiva is dedicated to ensuring health and well-being across generations. The European company produces and develops affordable, high-quality medicines, distributing these across 30+ countries to more than 100 million people. With a strong manufacturing presence and an extensive network of external partners, Zentiva assures a reliable supply chain. As a privately held entity, Zentiva is committed to achieving sustainable growth and has ambitious plans for the years to come.

With a workforce exceeding 5,000 unique talents, Zentiva values creating a workplace where everyone feels psychologically safe, appreciated, and empowered to contribute their best efforts. Their rich history dates back over 500 years to a small pharmacy in Prague, which continues to operate today. Looking towards a sustainable future, Zentiva aims to continue its mission of public health and well-being for at least another 500 years. For more details, visit zentiva.com.