As of the latest update, ANVISA has surpassed the US in terms of follow-on biologicals/biosimilars approval, trailing only behind Europe. This information was conveyed by Mr Fabrício Carneiro, General Manager of GGBIO*/ANVISA, during the 2nd Workshop on Biologicals and Biosimilars held in Brasilia, Brazil, on 12 and 13 December 2023.

The workshop convened national and international experts in lectures addressing regulatory and technological aspects, such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification, quality control, and biological testing.

During the inaugural session, the Director of ANVISA, Meiruze Freitas, acknowledged the challenge of increasing registrations for biological and follow-on biological/biosimilar medicines in Brazil. She emphasized the global nature of these products, highlighting the need for greater convergence with other countries. 

The 2nd Workshop on Biologicals and Biosimilars was participated by Mr Nilton Tojar, General Manager of the US Pharmacopeia for Latin America, industry representatives from Sindusfarma, Bionovis, and research institutate such as Butantan.

On 4 October 2023, ANVISA published Public Consultation No. 1,206/2023 regarding the modification of current requirements for obtaining authorization for the commercialization of follow-on biologicals/biosimilars. If this measure is approved, it has the potential to expand the development capacity of new follow-on biologicals/biosimilars for the Brazilian population, reducing costs for healthcare systems and also contributing to the goals of the Economic and Industrial Health Complex (CEIS) [2].

*GCBIO – General Management of Biological Products, Radiopharmaceuticals, Blood, Tissues, Cells, Organs and Advanced Therapy Products

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Market outlook for biological medicines in Brazil 2016‒2025

References
1. Cestari de Oliveira SH. Follow-on biologicals/biosimilars approved in Brazil: May 2023 update. Generics and Biosimilars Initiative Journal (GaBI Journal). 2023;12(2):67-72. doi:10.5639/gabij.2023.1202.012
2. GaBI Online - Generics and Biosimilars Initiative. Public consultation for the modification of the biosimilars regulation[www.gabionline.net]. Mol, Belgium: Pro Pharma Communications International; [cited 2024 Feb 9]. Available from: www.gabionline.net/policies-legislation/public-consultation-for-the-modification-of-the-biosimilars-regulation

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