RIYADH: The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that Saudi Arabia has achieved maturity level four (ML4) for medicines and vaccines regulation, Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Monday.
According to the SPA achieving maturity level four, the highest level of WHO’s classification for regulatory authorities, shows Saudi Food and Drug Authority’s (SFDA) sound and credible requirements intended to ensure drug safety and improving general health.
The Assistant Director-General for Access to Medicines and Health Products at the WHO, Dr. Yukiko Nakatani, said this achievement by SFDA is a significant milestone for the Kingdom and the region.
Saudi Arabia Reaches WHO Maturity Level 4 for Medicines, Vaccines Regulation.https://t.co/kk9Kcu0Pon#SPAGOV pic.twitter.com/90AoPJfSUR
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She added that SFDA is the first national regulatory authority in the Eastern Mediterranean and the third worldwide to achieve this milestone.
She emphasized the achievement further strengthened the longstanding partnership between the WHO and the Saudi government in working towards the goals of comprehensive universal health coverage and sustainable development.
Attaining ML4 also boosts the joint efforts of both parties to ensure and enhance access to high-quality, safe, and effective medical products. It also supports the international market entry of locally manufactured medications.
