The World Health Organization (WHO) announces the publication of a new country case study examining the ecosystem for local production of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and biologicals in the Republic of Serbia. This publication marks the seventh case study in WHO’s series led by the Local Production and Assistance (LPA) Unit within the Access to Medicines and Health Products Division (MHP).
This series is developed in support of WHO’s mandate under the landmark resolution WHA74.6 on strengthening local production of medicines and other health technologies to improve access. The country-focused assessments contribute to support low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in creating enabling environments for sustainable local production and technology transfer.
The new Serbia case study provides a comprehensive analysis of the country’s local production ecosystem. It highlights both established infrastructure and areas in need of improvement, such as political commitment and technology readiness, while recognizing the country’s strong legal and regulatory frameworks, R&D investment, and innovation incentives.
The study explores legislative and financing mechanisms, intellectual property frameworks, market preparedness, and regulatory oversight. This case study was developed through a rigorous assessment process that included interviews, policy reviews, and stakeholder consultations. It reflects collaboration between WHO headquarters, the WHO Country Office for Serbia, and national institutions, and was made possible through funding from the Governments of China and France.
The WHO case study series now includes Bangladesh, Kenya, Nigeria, Pakistan, Senegal, Serbia and Tunisia. Each country profile provides recommendations for improving sustainable, quality local manufacturing capabilities aligned with public health priorities.
The full case study is available on the LPA websites under the “Country Case Studies” section.
For further information, please contact Dr Jicui Dong, Head of the LPA Unit, at dongj@who.int, copying localproduction@who.int.