Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, in partnership with the Ministries of Investment and Health, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the American pharmaceutical company Vertex in order to localize gene therapy manufacturing.
The agreement aims to strengthen the biotechnology sector in the Kingdom by localizing the manufacturing of gene therapies, transferring knowledge, and fostering local innovations and research.
The partnership aims to help achieve Saudi Arabia’s goal of becoming a global biotechnology hub by 2040. It is also expected to attract investments of up to $266 million (SAR 1 billion) to the Kingdom over the next five years.
The MoU aims to position the Kingdom at the forefront of the global biotechnology landscape through three key pillars, including developing research, development, and medical treatment expertise within the Kingdom; strengthening local biomanufacturing capabilities in cell and gene therapy; and training and qualifying local talent to accelerate the development of Saudi health experts. Ultimately, the goal is for these experts to become global leaders in biotechnology.
According to the statement, “The agreement also aims to strengthen the Kingdom’s research and development ecosystem, increase the number of clinical trials, and develop specialized training programs to prepare Saudi talent to lead the global biotechnology sector.”
The partnership underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming a regional and global hub for gene and cell therapies, emphasizing innovation and scientific advancement to provide modern medical solutions for patients both locally and internationally.
