From JPMA Toward Strengthening Japan's Drug Discovery Capability

Since the 2000s, the trend in drug development has shifted from small molecules to a variety of modalities, including biotechnology. The Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Japan (PMAJ) has made it a top priority to "strengthen Japan's drug discovery capabilities" in order to drive the continued rapid flow of innovation toward practical applications. The establishment of a "drug discovery eco-system" is urgently needed. The "Expert Panel on Comprehensive Measures to Achieve a Rapid and Stable Supply of Pharmaceuticals" organized by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has also identified support for the creation of new modalities and the establishment of a drug discovery ecosystem as measures to strengthen drug discovery capabilities, and momentum is building for a national effort. I believe that the drug discovery ecosystem fits well with the Japanese national character that values harmony, companionship, and tireless effort.

On the other hand, for the drug discovery ecosystem to function, in addition to a mechanism to connect all players, an environment that attracts technology, people, and capital from around the world is necessary. For this to happen, Japan must be an attractive market where the value of innovation is appropriately evaluated. The price of pharmaceuticals is an official price and cannot be set by the will of the company alone, but we will work to gain the understanding of all concerned parties and the public in order to set an appropriate price for innovative new drugs. We will also contribute to the revitalization of the drug discovery ecosystem by actively injecting qualified human resources from Japan and abroad, including those from the pharmaceutical industry.