Story perspectives

Italy's Health Undersecretary Urges Local Drug Production Amid Supply Risks

4/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

Italian undersecretary for health Marcello Gemmato calls for restoring pharmaceutical production in Italy.
He notes 80% of active ingredients come from China and India.
Gemmato warns geopolitical tensions could disrupt lifesaving drug supplies.
The Gulf War exposes Europe’s vulnerability with shortages of salbutamol and anticancer drugs.
Distant supply chains via the Bab el-Mandeb Strait raise costs and shipping times, while many ingredients derive from Persian Gulf petrochemical sources.

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Story summary

Italian undersecretary for health Marcello Gemmato calls for restoring pharmaceutical production in Italy.
He notes 80% of active ingredients come from China and India.
Gemmato warns geopolitical tensions could disrupt lifesaving drug supplies.
The Gulf War exposes Europe’s vulnerability with shortages of salbutamol and anticancer drugs.
Distant supply chains via the Bab el-Mandeb Strait raise costs and shipping times, while many ingredients derive from Persian Gulf petrochemical sources.