Algerian Radio
The 12th edition of the North Africa International Pharmaceutical Industry Exhibition 2026 opened Tuesday at the Algiers Exhibition Center (SAFEX). Featuring nearly 300 exhibitors from 20 countries, including 95 Algerian participants, the event showcases the significant progress of the national pharmaceutical industry and its growing export ambitions.
The exhibition, held at the Central Pavilion until Thursday, draws wide national and international participation from Europe, America, Asia, and the Arab world. It brings together leading suppliers of raw materials, equipment, and services, as well as laboratory officials and production site managers. The event highlights the latest innovations in production equipment, quality control technologies, serialisation and tracking solutions, cleanroom equipment, and metrology.
Exhibitors emphasized that this strategic event fosters innovation and supports the national pharmaceutical industry's development, aiming to achieve pharmaceutical sovereignty and reduce the import bill. The salon also provides insights into major sector developments in Algeria, particularly in biotechnology—specifically biopharmaceuticals and biosimilars, and the local integration of raw material production.
A Sector Booming Through Investment
Djamel Boulsane, head of pharmaceutical ingredients and veterinary excipients at the Biotechnica group, noted the national sector's significant progress, describing it as being in a state of "continuous expansion" with a "very promising upward trend."
"Algeria has the potential to become a regional pharmaceutical hub," he stated. "Beyond medicine exports, the country can export its expertise in developing industrial units. Our nation possesses qualified human capital and enjoys the trust of African countries." He added that the sector is witnessing great dynamism in investment, training, and technology transfer, driven by both public and private actors and state support.
Sofiane Belaïd, manager of Necessary Pharmaceutical Industries based in the Wilaya of Constantine, described the sector's potential as "promising." He noted that while Algeria currently covers about 80% of its domestic medicine needs, the challenge lies in developing high-tech products, especially in biotechnology. He viewed the exhibition as an "exceptional event for professionals to exchange ideas on the latest innovations."
Furthermore, Mohamed Redjal, North Africa Sales Manager at the Tofflon group, stated that the salon reflects the "dynamism of the Algerian pharmaceutical sector, which has grown significantly and continues to attract international players." He emphasized that the event plays a fundamental role in developing local industry by promoting technology transfer and industrial partnerships.
Organizers expect to welcome approximately 5,000 visitors this year, a 10% increase compared to the previous edition. Alongside the exhibition, a series of conferences led by national and international experts will address topics such as health sovereignty, regulatory developments, digitalization of industrial processes, and Research and Development (R&D).
