Last Updated on October 15, 2024 by The Health Master
Bulk Drugs
India’s pharmaceutical industry, a global powerhouse, continues to show a growing dependence on China for its supply of bulk drugs and drug intermediates.
The first quarter of the current fiscal year has seen a significant uptick in imports from the neighboring nation.
Imports Surge, China’s Share Grows
Overall imports of bulk drugs and drug intermediates to India rose by a commendable 8.84% during the April-June 2024 quarter compared to the same period last year.
However, it’s the import figures from China that truly stand out.
These imports experienced a robust 10.8% growth, solidifying China’s position as India’s primary supplier in this critical sector.
- Dominant Chinese Share: China’s contribution to India’s bulk drug imports is staggering, accounting for a massive 72-74% of the total imports during the quarter.
- Quantity Matters: Not only in value but also in volume, China holds a commanding position, supplying 79.4% of the total quantity of bulk drugs and drug intermediates imported by India.
Financial Implications of the Import Trend
The financial data paints a clear picture of India’s growing import bill for bulk drugs.
- Dollar Value: Total imports climbed to $1.16 billion in the first quarter of 2024-25 from $1.07 billion in the same period last year.
- Chinese Imports: India’s import bill from China surged to $858.70 million, up from $774.96 million in the previous year.
- Rupee Terms: The import value in Indian Rupees also witnessed a substantial increase, reaching Rs. 9,712.44 crore compared to Rs. 8,824.64 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous fiscal.
A Mixed Bag for Indian Drug Exports
While the import scenario is dominated by China, India’s drug exports have shown a more modest performance.
- Slight Export Growth: Bulk drug and intermediate exports grew marginally to $1.13 billion (Rs. 9,447.32 crore) in the first quarter of 2024-25 from $1.12 billion (Rs. 9,253.92 crore) in the same period last year.
- Quantity Stagnation: The quantity of exports remained relatively unchanged at 1.10 lakh metric tonnes.
Broader Pharmaceutical Trade Scenario
To get a complete picture, it’s essential to look at the overall drug and pharmaceutical trade.
- Export Growth: The broader category of drugs and pharmaceuticals witnessed a 9.3% export growth in the first quarter, reaching $7.20 billion.
- Import Rise: However, imports in this sector also jumped by 12.4% to $2.15 billion.
Disclaimer: This article contains information derived from the source mentioned below. Our team utilized an AI language model to rewrite and present the news or article in a unique format.
CDSCO approval granted for Beyfortus in India
Human Error: The Silent Killer of the Indian Pharma Industry
Drug Recall in India: A Growing Concern
USFDA India appoints Greg Smith as New Director
RBI: Indian Pharma Industry faces Quality Control Overhaul
How the NPPA Regulates Medicine Prices in India
India seeks new Head for Drug Regulators CDSCO
Jyoti Sardesai a veteran Administrator retires after Four Decades of Service
India to ease Rules for import of EU Approved Medical Devices
For informative videos by The Health Master, click on the below YouTube icon:
For informative videos on Medical Store / Pharmacy, click on the below YouTube icon:
For informative videos on the news regarding Pharma / Medical Devices / Cosmetics / Homoeopathy etc., click on the below YouTube icon:
For informative videos on consumer awareness, click on the below YouTube icon:
