Lilly and EVA Pharma collaborate to expand access to baricitinib in low- to middle-income countries

Core Points - Eli Lilly and EVA Pharma have entered into a licensing agreement to manufacture and supply baricitinib for immunological diseases in 49 low- to middle-income countries in Africa, aiming to reach approximately 20,000 people by 2030 [1][2][3] - This initiative is part of Lilly's broader 30x30 initiative, which seeks to improve healthcare access for 30 million individuals in resource-limited settings annually by 2030 [2] - The collaboration will localize the entire value chain of baricitinib production in Africa, addressing manufacturing challenges and ensuring a sustainable supply of the medication [3][4] Company Overview - Eli Lilly is focused on expanding access to affordable and innovative medicines, having previously collaborated with EVA Pharma on insulin manufacturing for 56 countries [5][3] - EVA Pharma operates a high-containment facility and plans to begin sales of locally manufactured baricitinib by 2026, leveraging its pan-African reach and local manufacturing capabilities [4][5] - Both companies are committed to addressing unmet healthcare needs in low- to middle-income countries, with a focus on critical areas such as diabetes and immunological diseases [18][17]