KUWAIT CITY, May 20: The Ministry of Health announced on Monday that Kuwait has officially joined the International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH) as an observer member, marking a strategic move to strengthen the country’s pharmaceutical regulatory system.

In a statement, the ministry noted that Dr. Donia Al-Bastaki, Head of the Drug Registration Department, represented Kuwait at the ICH General Assembly. During the session, she presented an overview of Kuwait’s pharmaceutical regulatory framework, highlighting the country’s legislative development and ongoing efforts to modernize its regulatory policies.

Kuwait’s participation was welcomed by member states, with the General Assembly unanimously approving the country’s observer membership.

The ministry stated that this new status grants Kuwait direct access to internationally recognized technical guidelines on pharmaceutical quality and safety. It also enables Kuwait to participate in expert working groups involved in formulating global regulatory standards alongside major international regulatory bodies.

The ministry emphasized that this milestone aligns with the goals of the “New Kuwait 2035” Vision, particularly in advancing the national pharmaceutical industry by helping it meet international benchmarks. It also supports Kuwait’s efforts to enter regional and global markets and contributes to building an integrated and sustainable healthcare system.