The state-owned pharmaceutical giant Saidal is maintaining its momentum in collaborating with international partners within the field of vaccine manufacturing. A delegation from the American laboratory Abbott conducted a site visit on Wednesday to the Constantine 1 production facility. This visit was part of the ongoing cooperation between the two entities regarding the production of the “Influvac” influenza vaccine, according to a statement released by the group.
This visit serves to consolidate the cooperative ties between Saidal and Abbott. Both parties reaffirmed “their shared commitment to further strengthening their partnership to contribute to the growth of the pharmaceutical industry in Algeria.”
During the meeting, Saidal’s CEO, Mourad Belkhelfa, provided the American delegation with an overview of the group’s “ambitious” current projects. Notable among these is the cell therapy program, described as a flagship initiative reflecting Saidal’s dedication to innovation and high-level medical research.
Discussions primarily centered on the “Influvac” flu vaccine, which is manufactured locally under this Algerian-American strategic alliance. The American representatives expressed “great appreciation for this strategic cooperation,” while praising the caliber of the infrastructure and the professional expertise of the Saidal teams.
This partnership aims to provide innovative healthcare solutions to Algerian citizens, aligning with the government’s mandate to expand national pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities and minimize reliance on foreign imports.
The group highlighted the performance of the “Constantine 1” plant, a cornerstone of Saidal’s industrial strategy. The facility currently produces over two million doses of the “Influvac” vaccine annually through its agreement with Abbott.
Through this alliance, Saidal intends to solidify its standing within the regional pharmaceutical sector and continue developing domestic production that meets international quality standards, while expanding into high-value medical and technological fields.
It is worth noting that the American delegation was accompanied by Mark Shapiro, the Chargé d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Algeria. Upon their arrival, the Abbott representatives were officially received by Saidal’s General Manager.