The UAE will host the third edition of the World Local Production Forum from April 7 to 9, 2025, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The forum will operate under the theme “Advancing Local Production for Health Equity, Global Health Security, and Sustainable Development.” This announcement was made during a press conference at the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi.

The event aims to explore sustainable local production solutions that enhance healthcare systems and promote economic resilience. This initiative aligns with the UAE’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainability in the medical and pharmaceutical industries, ensuring preparedness for future challenges.

During the press conference, the Host Country Agreement was signed by Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director-General of the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE), and Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products at the World Health Organisation (WHO). Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade and Chairman of the Board of EDE, was present, reinforcing the UAE’s partnership with WHO in supporting global health goals.

As reported by Emirates News Agency (WAM), Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi stated that hosting the World Local Production Forum reflects the UAE’s commitment to advancing global health and achieving sustainable development goals. He emphasized that such significant international events strengthen the UAE’s position as a global hub for trade and manufacturing in healthcare products and services. The forum is expected to attract over 4,000 participants, including ministers, senior government officials, and representatives from international organizations, civil society, and the private sector.

The forum will focus on essential issues related to sustainable local production and technology transfer. Discussions will aim to provide practical recommendations that support development strategies and foster collective action. Topics include enhancing local production ecosystems, fostering innovation and technology transfer, and preparing for pandemics through local manufacturing improvements utilizing AI and digitalization.

Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi highlighted the UAE’s leading role in innovation and the importance of the forum in developing robust local production systems. She noted that the event would strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for innovation and attract investments in the healthcare sector.

Dr. Yukiko Nakatani emphasized the forum’s significance for advancing health equity and security, stating that the collaboration with the UAE aims to enhance local production capacities. This partnership is crucial for improving access to essential health products and achieving sustainable development goals.

Dr. Jicui Dong, Unit Head of the Local Production & Assistance Unit (LPA), described the forum as an ideal platform to shape strategies and co-create solutions for sustainable local production. He called for joint action between governments, industries, and stakeholders to invest in production capacities, essential for achieving global health equity.

The forum will explore how advanced technologies and sustainable practices can improve local production in healthcare. It aims to strengthen international cooperation, drive innovation, and expand investment opportunities, contributing to the development of resilient and sustainable healthcare systems locally and globally.