PPMA workshop on AI integration in pharma industry

KARACHI: The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers’ Association (PPMA) recently organised a workshop, calling for a national strategy to harness AI’s full potential, highlighting its ability to revolutionise drug discovery, personalised medicine, and operational efficiency in the pharmaceutical industry. 
Titled "The Future of Pharma: AI Integration for Enhanced Drug Discovery and Personalised, Medicine," the workshop was held at a local hotel. 
The event, led by Dr. Semih Kumluk, Head of AI and Digital at PwC Academy in the Middle East, explored AI's transformative potential for Pakistan's pharmaceutical industry.
Dr. Kumluk highlighted how AI could save up to 40pc of time in various processes, providing valuable insights for healthcare professionals. However, he pointed to limited data sharing as a significant obstacle for the sector in Pakistan. 
He proposed the establishment of an AI-powered data collection initiative to promote data exchange, with a focus on predictive maintenance and supply chain optimisation.
Former PPMA chairman M. Haroon Qassim underscored the need for AI adoption to boost efficiency and competitiveness in global markets, besides calling for increased government support, particularly by allowing pharmaceutical companies to retain a larger share of export revenues. 
This measure, he argued, could potentially raise pharmaceutical exports from the current $300 million to $2-3 billion within five years.
Syed Jamshed Ahmed, Deputy CEO of PharmEvo, discussed AI's role in addressing healthcare disparities, particularly in rural areas, by enabling remote diagnostics and supporting medical professionals. 
He stressed that AI could help meet the needs of underserved populations, particularly given the shortage of specialists such as neurologists in the country.
Dr. Kumluk also addressed the ethical concerns surrounding AI, including issues of data privacy and bias, stressing the need for responsible AI implementation to maintain patient trust and ensure the sector's sustainable growth.