The MENA biologics and biosimilars market consists of large molecule drugs produced or extracted from living organisms used for the treatment of various chronic diseases. biologics help treat diseases such as cancer, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, etc. They are made from living cells and are often the only treatment option for life-threatening illnesses. Biosimilars provide more affordable treatment options as compared to reference biologics by having similar efficacy but at lower costs. Rising prevalence of chronic diseases, increasing geriatric population and growing healthcare expenditure in the region are major factors increasing demand for biologics and biosimilars in Middle East and North Africa.

The Global MENA Biologics & Biosimilars Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 578.54 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 1.1% over the forecast period 2024 to 2030.

Key Takeaways

Key players operating in The MENA Biologics & Biosimilars are AstraZeneca, Eli Lilly and Company, Sanofi, Novo Nordisk A/S, Pfizer Inc. AstraZeneca's Fasenra gained FDA approval for use in severe eosinophilic asthma in 2020, while Eli Lilly's Trulicity was approved as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes in 2022. Sanofi’s strong R&D capability and diverse product pipeline is helping the company dominate the biologics space in MENA region.

The growing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer and respiratory disorders among large population base is fueling the demand for biologics and biosimilars in MENA. As per estimates, over 38 million people suffered from diabetes in MENA countries in 2021. Affordable biosimilars are projected to increase accessibility to treatment.

Technological advancements such as personalized medicine, artificial intelligence and big data analytics are playing a key role in improving the development and production of novel and targeted biologics. Partnerships between regional healthcare players and global biologics giants are enhancing R&D infrastructure and innovation in the MENA biologics sector.

Market Trends

Growing focus on monoclonal antibodies: Increasing demand for targeted cancer and immunology therapies is spurring investment in research of novel monoclonal antibodies. Monoclonal antibodies accounted for over 40% share of global biologics market in 2023.

Partnerships and collaborations: Establishing manufacturing alliances and contract manufacturing partnerships between global pharma giants and regional healthcare players is gaining traction. Such deals are enhancing technology transfer and boosting local production capabilities.

Market Opportunities

Increasing patient accessibility to biosimilars: Regulatory approvals and rising availability of affordable biosimilar treatment options presents an opportunity to expand patient reach considerably in lower income nations.

Rise of generic biologics: Future prospects exist in developing generic versions of blockbuster novel biologics facing patent expiry over the next decade through substantial investments in large scale manufacturing infrastructure.

Impact of COVID-19 on MENA Biologics & Biosimilars Market Growth

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the MENA Biologics & Biosimilars market. During the initial months of the pandemic, supply chain disruptions and lockdown restrictions led to decreased demand and production of biologics and biosimilars. Many clinical trials were also halted or delayed during this period. However, as the pandemic intensified, the demand and production of vaccines, drugs, and medical equipment dramatically increased to treat infected patients and curb the spread of the virus. Major biologics companies accelerated their efforts to develop effective vaccines against SARS-CoV-2 virus. The pandemic ushered in unprecedented funding and supportive regulations to fast track vaccine development and distribution. Post COVID, the market is expected to gain steady momentum as healthcare infrastructure and R&D activities are ramping up across the region. The development of COVID-19 treatments and vaccines will also continue to drive growth of the biologics and biosimilars market in the future.

Geographical Concentration in MENA Biologics & Biosimilars Market

In terms of value, the MENA biologics & biosimilars market is highly concentrated in Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. This is attributed to robust healthcare spending, presence of major biologics manufacturers, and increasing demand for innovative drugs in these countries. According to industry estimates, Saudi Arabia alone commanded over 35% market share in 2021 owing to its large population size, initiatives to expand universal healthcare coverage, and investments in local manufacturing facilities. The concentration is further growing in Saudi Arabia with planned investments of US$ 1 billion to develop an integrated biotechnology industry ecosystem. United Arab Emirates is another major hub with presence of prominent regional and international pharmaceutical companies. It is investing heavily in R&D infrastructure, regulatory guidelines, and healthcare reforms to further strengthen its position as a biologics market leader in the MENA region.

Fastest Growing Region in MENA Biologics & Biosimilars Market

Egypt has emerged as the fastest growing region in the MENA biologics & biosimilars market over the last few years. This can be attributed to government support for local pharmaceutical manufacturing, favorable regulations, and increasing healthcare spending from both public and private sectors. Egypt has a large population of over 100 million with rising income levels and growing burden of chronic diseases. This present a sizable addressable market for biologics. Furthermore, Egypt offers a strategic location for MENA and African regional markets. It is experiencing significant investments from global and regional biotech companies looking to expand presence. Egypt is projecting an average annual growth rate of over 8% for its biologics market until 2030 primarily driven by higher uptake of innovative drugs across therapy areas.