Summary
Oman is regarded as having one of the most efficient healthcare systems in the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region as well as globally, with a recent study by the World Health Organisation (WHO) judging the country's healthcare system best in terms of outcome. Consequently, the growth of the pharmaceutical market is ensured in the short to medium term, supported by excellent healthcare facilities, which are continuing to receive attention from foreign investors. The sector is also stimulated by the exclusion of expatriate workers from public healthcare schemes and the increased demand for medical tourism.
The country's intellectual property (IP) environment has been improved by the signing of the Oman-US free trade agreement (FTA), which led to the implementation of a data exclusivity regime and tougher penalties for counterfeiters. While providing greater opportunities for foreign companies operating within the country, the developments will also stimulate the growth of imports in the coming years. Consequently, prescription and branded drugs are expected to remain the dominant forces within the overall market, at 90% and 95% of the total value, respectively. On the other hand, cost-containment policies promoted by the government will encourage the development of the over-the-counter (OTC) and generics sectors, albeit from a small base.
In regional terms, BMI's Q307 Business Environment Rankings for the Middle East & Africa region places Oman in joint second place (up from fourth in the previous quarter), alongside Bahrain, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. Factors responsible for the improvement in the regional ranking are primarily a strong market growth forecast for the next five years, the lack of domestic competition, and a considerable involvement of public sector finances in the healthcare system.
Nevertheless, some investment in local manufacturing facilities can also be expected, as companies recognise the rising regional demand for generics. Oman Pharmaceutical Products Company (OPPC) is attempting to exploit this avenue through offering contract manufacturing to multinationals. In addition, the US-based Ascent Medical Technology Fund II is creating a joint venture with Salalah Medical Supplies Manufacturing Company (SMSMCo), with the aim of opening a medical manufacturing centre to supply exports.
|
