Message from the Chairman of JPMA
May 28, 2020
Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association
Chairman: Joji Nakayama
The 256th Assembly was held today in writing. The term of office of the Chairman and Vice Chairmen of the Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (JPMA) was extended for one year at the 255th Assembly held on March 19, this year, and will continue until the May 2021 Assembly. During the remaining one-year period, the current members will work diligently to promote the project, and we would appreciate your continued support.
With regard to the new type of coronavirus infection, the number of newly infected people in Japan is now decreasing and the spread of the virus is showing signs of slowing down, thanks to the great efforts of medical personnel, the promotion of various measures such as voluntary curfew and requests for people to close their offices, and the cooperation of the Japanese people.
Humanity has overcome various infectious diseases throughout its history. However, the threat of infectious diseases will not disappear in the future, not to mention the second and third waves of new coronavirus infections. Recognizing that pandemics will surely occur in the future, we believe that it is important to prepare for contingencies by fully examining the state of infectious disease countermeasures even in normal times.
JPMA, together with The Office of Pharmaceutical Industry Research, has established the "COVID-19 Task Force" and has been discussing the measures that Japan should take against infectious diseases in the wake of the recent pandemic. The task force is currently compiling recommendations on measures necessary to realize and promote the rapid creation and stable supply of drugs and vaccines not only for new coronavirus infections but also for emerging and reemerging infectious diseases, drug resistance, and other infectious diseases that present challenges. We will disseminate these proposals to the media, policy makers, academia, medical professionals, and a wide range of other interested parties, and hold discussions to realize these proposals.
As a research-based pharmaceutical company, JPMA and its member companies are determined to realize our mission to contribute to the improvement of health and healthcare for people worldwide through the creation of innovative new medicines and vaccines. We will face the challenges we have recognized and achieve further growth.