Mexico, EU Strengthen Cooperation on Public Health and Pharma

Mexico’s Minister of Health, David Kershenobich, recently visited Brussels to advance strategic cooperation in public health between Mexico and the European Union. The visit included high-level discussions that aimed to enhance collaboration in pharmaceuticals, regulatory alignment, and crisis management.

Key topics included Mexico’s national plan to strengthen its pharmaceutical industry and potential synergies with the new Critical Medicines Act. This EU legislation aims to secure the supply of critical medicines and establish partnerships with reliable allies such as Mexico.

Both sides agreed to boost cooperation mechanisms and investment promotion to facilitate bilateral trade in essential medicines and medical supplies. Discussions also focused on regulatory convergence and the transfer of technology to improve production capacity and medicine availability. Another priority was ensuring access to safe, affordable essential medicines during crises or shortages.

During the talks, representatives agreed to establish a Mexico-EU Sectoral Dialogue on health. This platform will address topics including equitable access to health products and services, regulatory cooperation, scientific research collaboration, information exchange, and comprehensive mental health care.

Kershenobich also met with Belgian government representatives to explore collaboration opportunities with Belgium’s specialized pharmaceutical ecosystem. The discussions involved stakeholders from the Belgian Foreign Affairs Ministry, the Federation of the Chemical and Life Sciences Industry (Bio.be/Essenscia), and the Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (FAMHP).