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LC Exhibiting at Bio International Convention 2012

2012-05-01T16:29:14Z

Are you attending the BIO International Convention 2012 in Boston next month? Bio International is one of biotech's largest conventions which brings together leaders in the industry from around the world. At the 2011 BIO International Convention in Washington we provided Spanish and Russian interpreting during several sessions and meetings with government officials. This year we expect to not only provide interpreting and translation services, but we will also be an exhibitor. The very nature of the meeting and the fact that there are many international delegates attending makes communication a key factor. In order for presentations and discussions to proceed effectively and smoothly, interpreters must be of the highest caliber. Don't risk being misunderstood!

Come visit our booth #2711 and let us know if you need any language services including interpreters for your panel sessions. As an official language service provider to BIO 2012, we are happy to serve you.

We look forward to meeting you.

For more information about our services visit our website at www.languageconnections.com

Universal Doctor: Multilingual Healthcare

2012-05-01T16:10:29Z

More often than not, doctors and patients come from entirely different cultural backgrounds, and too often, they are unable to communicate well in each other's language. This can pose a serious barrier to providing/receiving healthcare. Several new technologies have been developed to help overcome this issue. One of these, UniversalDoctor Speaker, is a computer application that allows primary care physicians to carry out a diagnostic patient interview and prescribe treatment in nine different languages, including French, Chinese, English, German, Russian, Romanian, Urdu, Arabic, Spanish, and Portuguese.

This multilingual software is part of a larger project, the Universal/Doctor Project, which has been designed to promote intercultural understanding and facilitate communication between healthcare providers and patients from different multicultural backgrounds. Although it does not enable fluency, it does allow the healthcare provider to connect with the patient by providing some simple phrases in the patient's native language.

In the absence of an interpreter, the advantage of this type of software is that it has been developed by translators. Moreover, the translators who worked on the software have addressed specific cultural issues that might affect patient care. For example, during the month of Ramadan practicing Muslims are expected to fast. However, this fasting may also include not taking medications. The UniversalDoctor Project has provided physicians with specific phrases to address this issue.

Other options currently available with the UniversalDoctor Project software include methods for recording patient data for patients with diabetes in twenty different languages. In Europe, UniversalDoctor is producing a video for the Measles, Mumps, and Rubella trivalent vaccine. This video, available in Spanish, English, and Romanian, brings together fourteen EU countries and Turkey in a unified effort to reduce morbidity and mortality of vaccine-preventable diseases.

In addition to Universal/Doctor software, there are currently several other apps available for i-Phones and Blackberries designed for healthcare providers. In cases where communication is poor between healthcare provider and patient, and in the absence of an interpreter, these communication tools can prove to be quite useful. Despite the fact that they provide very basic and a somewhat limited number of phrases, they help to overcome otherwise impossible linguistic and cultural barriers.

References: http://www.universaldoctor.com/

For more information about our services visit our website at www.languageconnections.com!

H1N1 Vaccine Production Renewed in India

2012-05-01T16:10:28Z

Indian drug manufacturers such as Zydus Cadila, Panacea Biotech and Serum Institute have resumed production of the swine flu vaccine as the H1N1 pandemic has again become a potential threat. This came in response to an anticipated increase in demand following the deaths of 21 people and the 281 patients that tested positive for H1N1 virus over the last few months in India.

Indian vaccine manufacturing companies had reported a decrease in H1N1 vaccine sales in 2011 - only 233 reported swine flu cases compared with 46,000 cases in 2010. Zydus Cadila. the Ahmedabad-based drug manufacturer, was one of the few companies which flourished as a result of its H1N1 vaccine production. Following decreased global demand since the 2009 worldwide epidemic, last year the company was forced to stop production of the vaccine.

However, after the recent increase in H1N1 incidence in India, the Indian Health Ministry ordered the production of two million doses of the vaccine from Panacea Biotech (according to company representatives). Despite the relative increase in demand for the vaccine, some Indian companies, such as India's sole manufacturer of nasal swine flu vaccine, the Serum Institute, are tentative about scaling up production. Following the initial serge in 2009 when companies could not produce enough vaccine to keep up with the demand, the Serum Institute was forced to destroy two million doses last year. As a result of this experience, they have limited their production to 200,000 doses this year.

On a side note, Mexico also experienced an increased incidence in H1N1 infection more recently. especially between December 2011 and February 2012. Those affected were primarily older patients, a different age group from that most affected by the original epidemic.

Resources:

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/news-by-industry/healthcare/biotech/pharmaceuticals/drugmakers-revive-production-of-h1n1-vaccine/articleshow/12564895.cms

Visit our website at www.languageconnections.com!

Biotech Regulatory News: Genetically Modified Animals

2012-05-01T16:10:28Z

Identifying which regulatory agency will give approval for a new product may be more confusing than expected for many companies developing genetically modified organisms. In the case of the British company, Oxitec, that recently developed a genetically modified mosquito to combat dengue virus, obtaining approval in the United States resulted in unnecessary delay due to confusion over which regulatory branch is responsible for providing approval for this type of product.

Dengue virus is responsible for causing Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever which often leads to death. In many parts of the world, such as Southeast Asia, this type of infection poses a serious threat. To date there is no effective treatment or vaccine to protect against infection. Since the virus is transmitted to humans via a mosquito vector, a viable solution is to eliminate the the mosquito carrier.

Based on this idea, Oxitec developed a genetically modified, sterile male mosquito which is by definition unable to produce offspring by mating. When Oxitec first attempted to get approval for their product, the company was initially asked to send their genetically modified mosquito to the US Department of Agriculture. But after 18 months, during which time there was no progress, the company was told that their application should have been sent it to the US FDA rather than the Department of Agriculture.

This type of confusion stems from a lack of an existing regulatory pathway designated for genetically modified animal products in the United States. In 1986, the Reagan Administration decided to implement existing laws, such as the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act and the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, as a framework for regulating genetically modified organisms. Still in use today, this system has proven to be somewhat problematic.

In the case of Oxitec mosquito, because the FDA considers a genetically modified mosquito to be a new animal drug, approval must therefore be obtained from the FDA. On the other hand, a mosquito does not necessarily fit into the definition of a drug. Other types of products in this category include a genetically modified salmon designed to grow faster than wild salmon. This product, developed by a company called AquaBounty, has been in the process of regulatory approval for the past ten years due to the fact that it too is considered a drug. Given the fact that there is public controversy over the accepted use of genetically modified organisms, the regulatory process is further complicated by such confusion over definitions.

Resources:

http://www.npr.org/2012/01/02/144330629/biotech-firms-caught-in-regulatory-no-mans-land

Visit our website at www.languageconnections.com !

Webinar Cultural Adaptation in Clinical Trials

2012-04-12T17:16:47Z

To enter full screen press on right click.

Language A Barrier to Health Care Benefits in California

2012-04-04T00:49:52Z

Language barriers could deter more than 100,000 Californians from enrolling in the state's Health Benefit Exchange Program, according to a recent study conducted by the California Pan-Ethnic Health Network, the UCLA Center for Health Policy Research, and the UC Berkeley Center for Labor Research and Education. The study projects that in California more than one million adults with limited-English proficient (LEP) will be eligible to receive tax credits to allow them to purchase affordable coverage; however, only 42 % of eligible LEP adults are expected to enroll in the program.

In California, more than 15 million residents speak a language other than English at home, and nearly half of them have limited proficiency in English. These statistics indicate the importance of adopting a strategy to improve community outreach and education. Of the population eligible for tax credits, 48 % are Latinos, 2 % are Native Americans, 4 % are African Americans, 32% are Caucasians and 14% are Asian American and Pacific Islanders. Although the issue is one of education for many populations, in many cases the language barrier is a major contributing factor.

The Health Benefit Exchange Program will help to lower the cost of health insurance for all Californians, and will be particularly helpful for working families that are in need of greater resources. However, in order for all state residents to benefit from such a program, they must enroll. Special measures must be taken to reach out to California's linguistically and culturally diverse populations in order to ensure their participation in the program, including providing materials and media in their own native language(s). The success in implementing this program will therefore depend not only on the number of people enrolled, but also on the state’s ability to reach those individuals who might benefit but may not have the language skills to participate.

References:

http://www.sjbeez.org/articles/2012/03/13/language-barriers-could-dampen-exchange-enrollment/

http://www.examiner.com/health-in-los-angeles/language-impairment-could-impact-health-benefit-exchange-enrolment

Visit our website at www.languageconnections.com

BiotechCorp & Quintiles Team Up in Malaysia

2012-04-04T00:49:52Z

The recent announcement of a new partnership between Malaysia's BiotechCorp and Quintiles East Asia branch this past month is further evidence of Malaysia's promising biotech industry. US-based biopharma services company Quintiles is collaborating with the Malaysia's leading biotech development agency, Biotechnology Corporation (BiotechCorp), as part of BiotechCorp’s efforts to expand their scope into the country's clinical research sector.The merger is expected to bring a new level of interest to Malaysia's already flourishing clinical research industry.

Among other things, the agreement between the two companies includes establishing a training program for clinical research, stem cell research, and vaccines in the Malaysian branch. Moreover, in conjunction with government support, BiotechCorp wants to address Malaysia's public health needs. Finally, the merger is expected to help improve infrastructure as well as bring greater expertise, in order to raise the country's clinical research capabilities. Quintiles, first opened offices in the Asia Pacific region in 1993. Then, in July 2010, the company formed a partnership with the University of Malaysia as an initial effort to strengthen the country's clinical research infrastructure by collaborating with large medical institutions involved in clinical research.

Analysts predict that Malaysia's biotech industry has enormous potential, and therefore we will be seeing greater collaboration between Western and Malaysia companies, especially in the clinical research sector.

References

http://www.pharmatimes.com/Article/12-03-22/Quintiles_hooks_up_with_Malaysia_s_BiotechCorp_for_clinical_research_support.aspx

http://www.thepharmaletter.com/file/111946/biotechcorp-quintiles-team-up-to-steer-malaysias-biotech-industry-to-greater-.html

Visit our website at www.languageconnections.com

Language Connections at Bio International 2012

2012-04-04T00:49:52Z

Are you attending the BIO International Convention 2012 in Boston this June? Bio International is one of biotech's largest conventions which brings together leaders in the industry from around the world. We provided interpreting and translation services at last year's convention. This year we expect to not only provide language services, we will also be an exhibitor.

We are looking forward to meeting you.

For more information about our services visit our website at www.languageconnections.com

Best Practices 2012 for Drug Trademarks

2012-03-06T17:27:49Z

According to experts, Between 1980 and 2010, the number of pharmaceutical trademarks filed increased over 300%. Although 238,010 pharmaceutical trademarks were filed globally in 2010, there were only 21 new drugs approved by the FDA and 14 new molecular entities approved by the EMA. In 2011, the U.S. FDA's approval of new drugs was the highest it has been in seven years, with a total of 30 new drugs.

In combination with the filing of a greater number of trademark applications, some companies have instituted standard commercialization guidelines and procedures to initiate trademark development as early as the end of Phase I. Others have instituted an annual budget for the creation and maintenance of a ‘name bank’ to prepare for a potential candidate shortfall or regulatory rejection. One benefit that has resulted from this is the ability to match fast-moving licensing opportunities with a set of names that have cleared the preliminary screening process.

A number of key lessons can be learned from this that can be applied by all companies interested in naming a new molecular entity. Below are recommended best practices for drug trademarks in 2012 :

Employ a team of professionals to develop a formalized process
Employ experts who have experience with FDA and EMA trademark requirements
Begin the process early so that this does not become the limiting factor
Identify the proper balance of creativity and clearance to help ensure a successful outcome
Remember to use localization experts to ensure success in global markets

Resources:

http://news.yahoo.com/pharmaceutical-drug-naming-best-practices-2012-pharmaceutical-trademark-133039855.html

Argentina's Pharma Market: GBI Executive Summary Report

2012-03-06T17:02:05Z

Argentina is one of the fast growing pharmaceutical markets in Latin America. It has an approximate revenue share of 10% of the total Latin American pharmaceutical market, and the third largest market in Latin America.

Following Argentina's 2001 economic crisis, many international companies left the country, while local companies used the opportunity to enter the biomanufacturing industry. This remains the case to a large extent today, with 71% of Argentinean pharmaceutical production taking place in national laboratories. In fact, out of all companies operating in the pharmaceutical sector, over half are domestic. Despite the dominance of domestic companies - and as a result of Argentina's highly promising market - there has been an increased collaboration between domestic and foreign companies.

Look for our contribution in the April 2012 GBI Research Pharma Executive Summary Report

(for free member access go to www.globalbusinessintelligence.com).

The report discusses various factors which have influenced the pharmaceutical market in Argentina, such as: the outlook for generics vs non-generic drugs in the country today, recent changes in healthcare coverage or legislature, and which domestic companies are successfully collaborating with foreign investors.

For more related articles visit our website at www.languageconnections.com!

Brazil Expected to Take Lead in Biotech Crops

2012-03-06T15:34:34Z

Global genetically modified crop plantings rose 8.1 % last year as Brazilian farmers grew more biotech soybeans, and the U.S. raised more biotech corn and cotton. According to the USAAA, a government-funded international organization promoting the use of agricultural biotechnology (particularly in developing countries), last year Brazil was largely responsible for global biotech crop growth. With 30.3 million hectares of bio-engineered crops, in 2011 Brazil increased it's planted biotech crops by 20% compared to 2010.

Many experts believe that Brazil is benefiting from Chinese demand for more gentically modified agricultural products, as well as regulatory reforms that have accelerated approval timelines. In addition to increased planting of biotech crops, Brazil has also been involved in developing new biotech crops. In September of 2011, Brazil approved a virus-resistant soybean, the first biotech crop to be developed by a public institution in a developing nation.

Biotech crops are genetically modified with the primary aim of improving resistance to pests, diseases, drought and cold, as well as to enhance the nutritional content of foods. Many argue that biotech crops will help meet the growing challenge of feeding the earth's population - expected to reach nine billion by 2050. Moreover, the United Nation's Food and Agricultural Organization estimates that world food output on existing farmland will have to double if we are to keep up with expected population growth.

Those who oppose the use of biotech crops are concerned about the potential environmental and health hazards of manipulating nature's harvest. Some argue that genetically altered crops pose a potential threat to the earth's biodiversity. Despite this, many believe that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Brazil's leading role in planting genetically modified crops is expected to have a significant global impact. As one of the first developing countries to play an important role in the area of genetically engineered agricultural products, Brazil may serve as an example for other countries.

References

http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-02-07/biotech-crops-expand-8-1-as-brazil-farmers-plant-more-soybeans.html

http://www.physorg.com/news/2012-02-brazil-world-biotech-crops-association.html

Visit our website for more information about our services at www.languageconnections.com!

Russian Investment & Massachusettes Technology

2012-03-06T15:34:33Z

THE U.S.- RUSSIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OF NEW ENGLAND
Russian Investment & Massachusetts Technology
A Winning Combination

Leo Galperin, LC President and Director of US-Russia Chamber of Commerce, will participate in this important Boston event on March 13th. The event is expected to bring together many leading companies in the area who are interested in learning the best strategies for collaborating with Russian investment companies.

Event Date: Tuesday, March 13 2012

Event Time: Registration: 4:30 pm- 5:00 pm

Program: 5:00pm-7:30pm

Location: Law Firm of K&L Gates LLP, State Street Financial Center

One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111

Click here to register: http://www.usrccne.org/subscribe.phtml?n=220

Russian investment funds have recently become a new source of financing for Massachusetts technology companies, inlcuding many biotech companies. This type of collaboration includes not only investment, but access to Russian markets and research resources. The program will include a panel discussion led by five Massachusetts companies that have received funding from leading Russian investment companies (Rusnano and Maxwell Biotech) focused on the opportunities and practical aspects of Russian investment.

Keynote Speakers will include:
    Dmitry Akhanov, President & CEO, Rusnano USA
    Alexey Eliseev, Managing Director, Maxwell Biotech * Panel Discussion:
    Selecta Biosciences, Werner Cautreels, CEO
    BIND Biosciences, Scott Minick, CEO
    Joule Unlimited, William Sims, President & CEO
    Dental Photonics, Alexander Vybornov, President & CEO
    Bionevia Pharmaceuticals, Tim Barberich, CEO

For information about our services visit our website at http://www.languageconnections.com!

EDC Adoption in Global Trials

2012-02-07T16:10:47Z

With the expansion of clinical research into emerging countries, many companies are pushing for global electronic data capture (EDC) adoption in an effort to improve the efficiency and accuracy of patient data collection methods. Although there are many advantages to converting to a paperless system, there are several new challenges that have arisen in the process. Limited IT, inadequate training in EDC technology and language barriers have all contributed to the relatively slow progress of EDC adoption in international clinical trials.

Our life sciences expert has recently published an article in the February 2012 issue of International Clinical Trials entitled "Communication Crossroads" which discusses these issues. The article brings to light the limitations due to inadequate technology and infrastructure in many emerging countries, as well as the importance of a unified translation system to ensure data accuracy. We offer you the opportunity to read this article now.

Copyright by Language Connections, LLC.

Optimizing Global Operations via International Partnerships

2012-02-07T16:10:46Z

Forming international partnerships is becoming an increasingly common trend among companies that want to fully optimize their access to global markets. More and more life science companies are looking for partners that can bring together technological expertise, information assets and resources to help them optimize their operations and enhance their entrance into global markets. Multinational companies often enter emerging markets by acquiring domestic generics and manufacturing companies in order to facilitate cost savings, accounting for 50% of all mergers and acquisitions between 2008 and 2010.

A recent example of this is IMS Health's acquisition of the Indian company PharmARC - a partnership that will . IMS Health is a leading international provider of information, services and technology for the healthcare industry which has its headquarters in the US. PharmARC is a leading provider of analytic solutions for the commercialization of drugs and medical products and is based in Bangalore, India. Their partnership will increase both companies' capabilities and scope, as well as help IMS Health meet the growing demand for outsourced services.

By merging with a major Australian company, Watson Pharmaceuticals' recent acquisition of Ascent PharmaHealth will help position it as a leading pharmaceutical company in Australia and Southeast Asia. Through this acquisition Watson - a leading US generics company - will increase market distribution in Ascent's established generics and OTC markets which include Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Thailand.

This trend has increased the need to improve international and intercontinental communication, along with translation and interpreting requirements. Not only must communication be clear during business negotiations, but the continued success of these partnerships depends on continued effective communication, both spoken and written. Moreover, due to the delicate nature of dealing with healthcare products and information, companies must take care at all stages to ensure that language and cultural barriers do not interfere.

Copyright by Language Connections, LLC.

A Joint FDA-EMA Inspection Program

2012-02-07T16:10:46Z

Following a successful pilot program, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) will begin sharing the work of inspecting pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities in their respective regions. Effective as of January 2012, the program hopes to eliminate any duplication of efforts in the past, by allowing the two authorities to rely on each other's inspection outcomes.

FDA and EMA officials say the program will allow them to work more efficiently. The agencies intend to make better use of their resources and reduce the overall burden by decreasing the number of duplicate inspections and establishing a master list of API supplies facilities. Information exchange will be focused on sites already known to each agency.

LC Receives 2011 Best of Brighton Award for Excellence in Translation & Interpreting

2012-01-03T17:00:24Z

Press Release:

U.S. Commerce Association’s Award

December 8, 2011 -- Language Connections has been selected for the 2011 Best of Brighton Award in the Translators & Interpreters category by the U.S. Commerce Association (USCA).

The USCA "Best of Local Business" Award Program recognizes outstanding local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies that they believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and community.

About U.S. Commerce Association (USCA)

U.S. Commerce Association (USCA) is a New York City based organization funded by local businesses operating in towns, large and small, across America. The purpose of USCA is to promote local business through public relations, marketing and advertising.

SOURCE: U.S. Commerce Association

Copyright by Language Connections, LLC.

FDA Addresses Globalization Issues

2012-01-03T17:00:23Z

The drug development, production, and distribution landscape in the United States has changed dramatically in recent years, expanding the FDA’s responsibilities across new borders. According to recent statistics, up to 40 % of the drugs in the United States are imported, and up to 80% of the active pharmaceutical ingredients in those drugs are produced abroad. This globalization, along with increased outsourcing, has posed new challenges that requires the FDA to refocus its drug review process.

According to agency officials, the FDA plans to overhaul its enforcement approach to reflect the impact of globalization by partnering more with foreign counterparts, streamlining inspections and recalls, and using stricter criminal sanctions to deter noncompliance. The recent opening of offices in China and India is a reflection of the need for a greater global presence. New strategies to secure the global supply chain by ensuring that drugs are manufactured and distributed according to established quality standards are to be implemented by 2015.

The FDA also plans to continue its efforts to develop standards for biologics and the vaccine qualification process, on which global access to vaccines is dependent. Among the FDA's goals are to promote global research and information‐sharing to address emerging disease threats; to facilitate global access to vaccines and biological products related to critical health needs; and to harmonize regulatory standards for new biologics to promote global public health.

In summary, the FDA's current strategies are primarily aimed at meeting the new challenges posed by globalization, with a focus on implementing better methods to facilitate global access to safe and effective products.

For more information about our services visit our website at www.languageconnections.com !

China: Second Largest Pharma Market

2012-01-03T17:00:23Z

China is close to becoming the second largest pharmaceutical market and the world's largest single-payer system requiring companies to implement new business strategies. With an annual growth rate of almost 20% - projections indicate the market value will increase from $40 billion in 2011 to $100 billion by 2015 - China's pharmaceutical market is booming. The National Bureau of Statistics reported that investments in China’s pharmaceutical industry have increased by 31.6 %, reaching a new record value. In order for companies to maintain a competitive edge in today’s global market, however, they must know how to successfully enter the Chinese market.

From January to July of 2011, the Chinese pharmaceutical industry's value increased to $126 billion, 29.6% more than the value from the same period of time the previous year. According to analysts, China is expected to become one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical markets, second only to the United States. Predictions by experts suggest that the Chinese pharmaceutical market will overtake that of Japan in size by the end of next year, driven by the government’s Healthy China 2020 Plan ($1.4 trillion to be invested in pharmaceuticals by 2020).

Among the areas of focus is the Chinese government's significant effort to increase domestic pharmaceutical production. In 2011, the government announced plans to invest $759 million in the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients. China already has the world’s largest manufacturing capacities and is responsible for producing a large portion of the world's pharmaceuticals. The Chinese market is currently dominated by prescribed generic drugs, which accounted for 67% of the pharmaceutical market in 2010. However, patented brand-name drugs are expected to increase by 7.9% by the end of 2022. The government has also made large invests in the country’s health care system, increasing insurance coverage in rural areas, with the ultimate goal of providing the Chinese population as a whole with health care.

Since China joined the World Trade Organization (WTO), foreign pharmaceutical companies have continually increased their presence in the country. The Chinese pharmaceutical market in particular is becoming increasingly attractive for foreign investors because of its growing aging population, increased incidence of diseases common in the West, and expanding health care insurance coverage. Despite growing economic pressures on the pharmaceutical industry, along with economic crisis in many Western countries, there is strong incentive for companies to invest in China’s growing pharmaceutical industry.

An increasing number of Western pharmaceutical companies have recognized the country's business opportunities. Many international pharmaceutical organizations have established or expanded their presence in China, and several major multinational companies have recently increased their investments in the country. In 2011, Merck expanded their R&D by building a major center in Beijing China, while AstraZeneca acquired a privately owned injectables generics manufacturer in China’s Guangdong province. Currently, more than 1,500 foreign pharmaceutical companies work in China in some capacity, accounting for about 30% of the country's pharmaceutical market.

China is an increasingly important region for the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the manufacture of active pharmaceutical ingredients. It is also an important destination for clinical trials and, with growing investments in R&D, biotech research is becoming an important area as well. Research in biomarkers, genomic sequencing, regenerative medicine, and biosimilars are major focuses.

If companies want to keep up with the quickly changing pace of today’s pharmaceutical industry, they must learn how to work in China. We at Language Connections provide expert language services to companies in the life sciences that are interested in working in China, helping them to successfully overcome language and cultural barriers.

References:

www.thepharmaletter.com/file/109192/booming-chinese-pharmaceutical-market-set-to-overtake-japan-by-2014.html

www.interpack.de/cipp/md_interpack/custom/pub/content,oid,14838/lang,2/ticket,g_u_e_s_t/~/China’s_Pharmaceutical_Market_is_Boomin

articles.businessinsider.com/2011-03-07/markets/30013541_1_drug-companies-pharmaceutical-market-citi#ixzz1gdKnZE5u

www.manufacturingchemist.com/news/article_page/Chinese_pharma_market_will_reach_US1168bn_by_2015/65985

Visit our website at www.languageconnections.com !

Global Interest in Brazil

2012-01-03T17:00:23Z

According to the National Ministry of Health, the Brazilian pharmaceutical market has grown by $28 billion annually, backed strongly by generics sales. Although government programs largely support generics, Brazil's president has also encouraged long-term foreign investment in the country's pharmaceutical industry. Thus, companies that know how to work in Brazil are finding their place in this fast growing market.

The pharmaceutical market in Brazil - the second largest among the seven ‘pharmerging’ markets (which also include China, India, Russia, Turkey, Mexico and South Korea) - is expected to grow annually by 7 to 10 % from 2008 to 2013, according to IMS Health, a leading provider of market intelligence for the pharmaceutical industry. These future forecasts are well above any growth rates for markets in North America, Western Europe and Japan.

In addition, experts predict that the Brazilian population will experience exponential growth (from 191 million in 2011 to 220 million by 2040), with significant growth in the elderly population as well as an increased incidence in chronic diseases. Currently in Brazil, the primary therapeutic research areas are focused on anti-hypertensive agents, anti-ulcer medications, oral diabetic therapeutics, lipid regulators, and muscle relaxants. All of the above factors have played a role in the growing interest in the Brazil's expanding pharmaceutical industry.

Despite the incentives, there are some challenges which foreign companies must address. Issues such as the favoring of generics and high counterfeit sales, as well as compulsory licenses, price setting, tax laws, slow product approvals and linguistic barriers, have all played a negative role. Despite these issues, however, gaining access to the fast-growing Brazilian pharmaceutical market has proven to be profitable for companies who know how to go about it.

According to marketing experts in Brazil, creating strong partnerships with local companies is a key factor for multinational companies wishing to succeed in the country. Foreign companies can benefit from a local company's knowledge of the local market as well as their relationships with health care-related organizations and institutions. In turn, local companies are increasingly interested in establishing partnerships with international companies, especially companies that are strong in R&D. The Brazilian government has invested largely in generics and vaccines, and as a result these are the focus of foreign companies interested in collaborating with Brazilian companies.

One example of this is the partnership between Celesio, a German leading international service provider in the pharmaceutical/health care industry, and Oncoprod Group, a leading Brazilian wholesaler specializing in specialty cancer pharmaceutical products. In a recent negotiation, Celesio acquired 60 % of Oncoprod Group. Celesio's selection was based on the fact that in Brazil, specialty pharmaceuticals are available almost exclusively in hospitals and specialized clinics rather than regular pharmacies due to the fact that they have specific requirements for handling and storage. Thus, hospitals and clinics must rely primarily on specialty distribution companies such as Oncopod for these products.

In 2009, Celesio bought a majority stake in Brazil's largest drug distributor Panpharma. Following recent government cuts to drug reimbursements in Germany, Celesio chose to invest in the more profitable Brazilian market rather than at home. This trend is becoming increasingly common. The German-based company addressed cultural and linguistic barriers by having Celesio’s representatives in Portugal manage the Brazilian Panpharma counterparts. This system worked well for Celesio, but not all companies have this as an option, and they must partner with language service providers in order to overcome linguistic and cultural barriers.

With Latin America’s largest and strongest economy, and increasing expenditures per capita in pharmaceuticals, the future of the Brazilian pharmaceutical market looks very promising. If foreign companies know how to choose the right partner to help them navigate their way, they can greatly benefit from investing in Brazil’s quickly growing pharmaceutical market. In addition to choosing the right Brazilian pharma company, choosing the right language service provider to help overcome language and cultural barriers also plays an important role. We at Language Connections have experience working with companies in the life science industry that have invested and are working in Brazil, and we know the importance of effective communication in fostering successful business relationships.

References:

inwardinvestment.pharmaceutical-business-review.com/news/celesio-acquires-stake-in-brazilian-pharma-firm-121011

social.eyeforpharma.com/market-access/breaking-brazilian-pharma-market

LC Interprets for RUSNANO

2011-12-06T17:36:05Z

RUSNANO was founded in March 2011 partly as a venture capital company and through the reorganization of the state corporation Russian Corporation of Nanotechnologies. The primary goal of the company is to develop the Russian nanotechnology industry through co-investment in nanotechnology projects. The Russian Government currently owns 100 % of the company's shares.

Last week (November 29th and 30) Language Connections provided interpreting support during high-level meetings between Anatoly Chubais, the company's CEO, and a few other top RUSNANO executives who met with the Boston and Cambridge entrepreneurial community. Among biotech companies selected were Selecta Biosciences and BIND Biosciences, both companies which are working to develop synthetic vaccines and drugs against various diseases including cancer, malaria, AIDS, influenza, papilloma virus, and nicotine addiction.