India Tackles Logistical Challenges in Pharma-Grade Methanol Production Amid Global Supply Chain Issues
Efforts to raise production of pharma-grade methanol underway, but logistics issues persist, says official
Mint
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India's pharmaceutical industry faces logistical challenges in producing pharma-grade methanol, relying heavily on imports despite domestic capacity. Government officials are coordinating efforts to improve supply chains and prevent medicine shortages, particularly as the ongoing conflict in West Asia disrupts global supplies.
- 01India's pharmaceutical sector relies on imports for nearly 90% of its methanol needs.
- 02Logistical issues hinder the efficient transport of methanol from northeastern refineries to drug manufacturing hubs.
- 03The government is working to strengthen supply chains and ensure uninterrupted production of essential medicines.
- 04Methanol is vital for producing antibiotics and cholesterol-lowering medications.
- 05Coordination between various ministries is crucial to address supply challenges in the pharmaceutical industry.
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India's pharmaceutical industry is currently grappling with significant logistical challenges that hinder its ability to produce pharma-grade methanol, a critical chemical used in drug manufacturing. Despite having the capacity to produce methanol domestically, the industry relies on imports for nearly 90% of its 500 tonnes per day requirement. The ongoing conflict in West Asia has exacerbated supply chain disruptions. T.L. Satyaprakash, joint secretary of the Ministry of Chemical and Fertilizers, highlighted that the geographic distance between manufacturing hubs in northeastern states like Assam and major pharmaceutical clusters in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Telangana complicates transportation. The government is actively coordinating between ministries to bolster supply chains and prevent potential medicine shortages. Methanol is essential for synthesizing antibiotics and other medications, making its uninterrupted supply crucial. To address these challenges, the government is exploring options to strengthen infrastructure and develop regional storage or production hubs, ensuring reliable access to critical inputs for the pharmaceutical sector.
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The logistical challenges in methanol supply could lead to medicine shortages, affecting patients who rely on critical medications.
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