Uttar Pradesh is deepening its collaboration with Japan to advance pharmaceutical research, development, and manufacturing. The initiative took centre stage during a virtual meeting organised by Invest UP, bringing together over 125 Japanese pharmaceutical companies alongside leading Indian firms such as TI Medicals, Torrent Pharma, and 3xper Innoventure.
High-Level Participation and Strategic Dialogue
The meeting was chaired by Awanish Awasthi, Advisor to the Chief Minister of UP, with senior officials from Invest UP. The Japanese delegation featured Yoshikazu Hayashi, Director General of the Kansai Pharmaceutical Industries Association, and Professor Atsuko Kamiike from Chuo Gakuin University.
Japanese industry leaders praised India’s pharmaceutical sector for its innovation, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, referring to it as the “Pharmacy of the World.” The dialogue underscored mutual interest in strengthening R&D collaboration and promoting high-value pharmaceutical manufacturing in UP.
UP’s Infrastructure and Workforce Advantage
Awasthi highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s strong infrastructure and strategic connectivity as key enablers for global investment. The state boasts 13 expressways (7 operational and 6 under development), five international airports, and 16 domestic airports — ensuring seamless access to the National Capital Region and major trade hubs.
He also emphasized UP’s demographic strength, noting that 56% of its population is within the working-age group, providing a large and skilled workforce for emerging pharmaceutical and biotech industries.
Building Capacity through Premier Medical Institutions
The state’s robust healthcare and academic ecosystem further strengthens its appeal for pharmaceutical R&D. Renowned institutions such as King George’s Medical University (KGMU), Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences (SGPGI), and two AIIMS campuses form the backbone of UP’s medical education network. Supported by over 200 medical colleges, they are poised to play a pivotal role in workforce development for Contract Development and Manufacturing Organisations (CDMOs).
Policy Support for Global Investors
UP’s Investment Promotion Policy 2023 offers attractive incentives and sector-specific support to encourage foreign investment. The policy framework aims to position the state as a preferred destination for pharma and life sciences enterprises.
Encouraging Japanese Investment in UP’s Growth Story
The session concluded with UP officials extending a formal invitation to Japanese companies to explore the state’s rapidly expanding pharmaceutical ecosystem. As reported by knnindia.co.in, Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a promising hub for global pharmaceutical innovation and manufacturing. The state’s blend of industrial readiness, skilled talent, and rich cultural heritage strengthens its appeal to global investors.
