Bangladesh Medicines Exported to 140 Countries: Health Minister

Bangladesh is now exporting locally produced medicines to over 140 countries, Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Hossain announced Monday morning.

He shared the milestone during a ceremony at the Secretariat, where the Bangladesh Association of Pharmaceutical Industries (BAPI) donated 100,000 bags of intravenous (IV) saline to support dengue treatment.

The minister emphasized the government's commitment to expanding pharmaceutical exports and pledged full support to private companies. He noted that while previous administrations over the past 17 years failed to ensure adequate supplies of critical medical equipment like ventilators, syringes, and vaccines, the current government has successfully managed health crises with the support of private entrepreneurs.

Addressing the ongoing dengue situation, the minister confirmed the central medical store currently holds 100,000 bags of IV saline, with an additional 20,000 to 25,000 bags distributed across various upazilas. He warned, however, that sudden spikes in dengue cases could require additional emergency supplies. He also mentioned that the production of measles antibodies is expected to be completed by June 20.

Regarding the recent deaths of newborns at Ad-Din Hospital in Moghbazar, the minister stated the hospital has been granted a two-day extension—until Tuesday, June 9—to respond to a government show-cause notice. This extension ensures the hospital cannot exploit procedural loopholes in court. The ministry will decide on further legal action once the response is received.