特稿丨古巴生物制药产业在封锁下艰难突围

Core Insights - Cuba's biopharmaceutical industry has made significant progress despite the long-standing U.S. blockade, focusing on public health needs and integrating research, production, and commercial aspects [1][2] - The blockade has led to severe shortages of raw materials and equipment, causing persistent drug shortages, which the Cuban government is attempting to mitigate through international cooperation and supply chain diversification [1][3] Investment and Development - The Cuban government has heavily invested in human capital and scientific development, establishing a biopharmaceutical system that has gained international recognition for its contributions to public health [1][2] - The establishment of the Biopharmaceutical Group in 2012 has consolidated over 40 biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, improving quality standards and resource efficiency [2] Challenges and Shortages - The U.S. blockade has resulted in a 95% reliance on imported raw materials for drug production, with equipment failures contributing to 5% of production halts [3] - As of 2025, 69% of the essential drug list is affected by the blockade, with 364 out of 651 drugs in short supply, representing 56% of the total [3] International Cooperation - To counteract the pressures of the blockade, Cuba is deepening international cooperation, with Latin America being the primary export market and Africa emerging as a new growth area [4] - Collaborative projects, such as those announced at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, aim to develop drugs for aging and cancer, enhancing Cuba's biopharmaceutical capabilities [4][5] Future Prospects - Cuba's recent accession as a BRICS partner country is expected to provide new avenues for financing, technology support, and market diversification, potentially alleviating the constraints imposed by the U.S. blockade [5]