UAE to Host Third World Local Manufacturing Forum in April

ABU DHABI: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) announced that it will host the third edition of the World Local Manufacturing Forum (WLMF) at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC) from April 7 to 9. Themed “Advancing Local Manufacturing for Health Equity, Global Health Security, and Sustainable Development,” the forum aims to explore sustainable solutions for local manufacturing that enhance healthcare systems and bolster economic resilience.

The UAE’s decision to host this global event aligns with its commitment to promoting innovation and sustainability in the medical and pharmaceutical industries, ensuring readiness to tackle future challenges. The announcement was made during a press conference at the Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi, further emphasizing the country’s role as a hub for global health innovation.

Strengthening Global Health Partnerships

During the press conference, Dr. Thani Bin Ahmed Al Zayoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade and Chairman of the Board of Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE), signed the Host Country Agreement with Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director General of EDE, and Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products at the World Health Organization (WHO). This agreement highlights the UAE’s robust partnership with the WHO, reinforcing its dedication to supporting global health goals and adopting innovative health policies.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Al Zayoudi emphasized that hosting the WLMF in partnership with WHO reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to advancing global health, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and addressing global health challenges. He added that hosting international events like the WLMF enhances the UAE’s reputation as a global hub for trade, manufacturing, and innovation, particularly in healthcare products and services.

A Platform for Global Collaboration

The forum is expected to attract more than 4,000 participants, including ministers, senior government officials, leaders of international organizations, private sector representatives, financial institutions, civil society members, and technical and industrial experts. The diverse gathering will serve as a platform to exchange ideas, develop innovative strategies, and address critical issues surrounding sustainable local production and technology transfer.

The agenda of the forum includes key discussions on practical recommendations to improve equitable access to high-quality health products that enhance global, regional, and national health security. Some of the key topics include:

1. Enhancing Local Manufacturing Ecosystems: Policies, regulatory frameworks, market development, human capital, and innovative financing strategies.
2. Promoting Innovation and Technology Transfer: Strengthening production along the value chain to foster local manufacturing.
3. Pandemic Preparedness and Response: Building resilient systems to respond effectively to future health crises.
4. Leveraging AI, Digitization, and Green Manufacturing: Transforming local production ecosystems for sustainability.
5. Building Effective Partnerships: Facilitating collaboration among stakeholders for health equity and pandemic preparedness.

The forum will also feature a CEO panel discussion on leading successful industries that have a positive impact on public health.

UAE at the Forefront of Healthcare Innovation

Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi highlighted the UAE’s leadership in fostering innovation, attracting global talent, and adopting cutting-edge technologies. She noted that the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) plays a pivotal role in advancing healthcare innovation by safeguarding public health, regulating the pharmaceutical and medical product industries, and ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of healthcare solutions.

“Our partnership with the WHO to host this forum underscores our commitment to achieving health equity and advancing sustainability in healthcare at both regional and global levels,” said Dr. Al Kaabi.

She further emphasized that the forum is an important platform for global stakeholders to discuss strategies for building robust local production systems that address national needs and support global supply chains. The event also strengthens Abu Dhabi’s position as a global center for innovation, attracting investments in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors.

Driving Health Equity and Security

Dr. Yukiko Nakatani underscored the significance of the WLMF, stating, “The World Local Manufacturing Forum 2025 is a critical event to advance health equity and security, while strengthening the resilience of health systems both during peacetime and pandemics.” She stressed that such initiatives are vital to fostering global collaboration and enhancing the capacity of nations to meet health challenges through innovative local manufacturing solutions.

Advancing Global Health Goals

The hosting of the third WLMF reaffirms the UAE’s role as a leader in advancing global health priorities. The forum’s focus on sustainable manufacturing, innovation, and strategic partnerships demonstrates the country’s proactive approach to addressing pressing global health challenges while ensuring resilience in the healthcare sector.

As the countdown to the April event begins, the UAE continues to solidify its position as a key player in driving health equity, promoting sustainable development, and fostering global collaboration in healthcare and beyond.