Abstract
This study aims to evaluate Thailand's drug security through an in-depth analysis based
on the SUPERB framework, which includes:
1. Self-sufficient: Self-reliance and the ability to produce pharmaceuticals domestically,
with surplus for export.
2. Up-start: Promotion of innovative entrepreneurs and new startups in the
pharmaceutical industry.
3. Partnership: Collaboration across various sectors, both domestic and international,
related to the pharmaceutical industry.
4. Efficiency: Efficiency of systems, regulations, and requirements within the
pharmaceutical industry.
5. Research & Development: Research and development of pharmaceuticals and
pharmaceutical innovations.
6. Balancing Environment and Benefits with the Community: Balancing the benefits
generated by the pharmaceutical industry with environmental preservation and social
responsibility toward communities and society.
This study was a Mixed Methods Research Design. Qualitative data were collected
through in-depth interviews, brainstorming sessions, and literature reviews on legal issues,
alongside a SWOT analysis of the current pharmaceutical industry in Thailand. Quantitative
data were gathered from historical records on imports, exports, and investment in the
pharmaceutical sector over the past 10 years. Research findings indicate that Thailand remains
heavily dependent on the importation of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) from abroad,
posing a significant risk to drug security, particularly during times of crisis. Despite the presence
of domestic organizations capable of producing API and pharmaceutical excipients-such as the
Government Pharmaceutical Organization (GPO) and partnerships with the private sector, these
efforts still face regulatory barriers and higher production costs.
Furthermore, the growth of pharmaceutical start-ups faces challenges due to complicated
drug registration processes, limited budgetary support for research and development (R&D),
and a lack of integrated policy coordination between relevant public and private agencies.
Policy recommendations arising from this study include establishing a central national
body to coordinate pharmaceutical industry promotion policies (Integrated National Policy
Governance Mechanism Board), reforming the regulatory framework toward a risk-based
regulatory system, defining a list of strategic API crucial for national security, creating a National
Pharmaceutical Innovation Hub to serve as a central body for pharmaceutical innovation,
supporting environmentally friendly pharmaceutical production practices (Green GMP). These
recommendations aim to strengthen and sustain Thailand's pharmaceutical industry through
innovation, thereby enhancing the country's long-term drug security.
