27 May 2026
5 months ago
937 views
The second annual Minister for Manufacturing Awards in New Zealand celebrated businesses and individuals driving innovation, growth, and resilience in the manufacturing sector, which contributes $22 billion annually and 60% of goods exports to the economy. Winners included Architectural Glass Products for process innovation and manufacturing excellence, Devin Gibson as Apprentice of the Year, Oliver Hunt for healthcare remanufacturing leadership, and Jeff Douglas for his transformative legacy in pharmaceutical manufacturing. The awards highlight the sector's commitment to innovation, skills development, sustainable practices, and global competitiveness amid ongoing challenges.
12 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1145 views
Associate Health Minister David Seymour welcomes the passing of the Medicines Amendment Bill, which introduces the 'Rule of Two' for faster approval of medicines with recognition from two overseas jurisdictions. The streamlined verification pathway aims to increase access to medicines for New Zealanders, starting with countries like Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The government prioritizes improving patient outcomes by enhancing access to medicines through initiatives like increased Pharmac funding, patient input in funding decisions, and efficient regulatory processes.
29 Oct 2025
12 months ago
1245 views
Pharmac's Reset Programme, part of a five-year plan, is progressing well with the completion of the first 90-day action plan, focusing on transparency and accountability in funding decisions for pharmaceuticals. Associate Health Minister David Seymour emphasizes the importance of involving patients, families, and clinicians in decision-making processes to improve the patient-Pharmac relationship. The Consumer and Patient Working Group, chaired by Dr. Malcolm Mulholland, plays a key role in providing insight and practical advice to ensure the programme reflects consumer needs, values, and perspectives, with ongoing plans to enhance patient engagement and communication strategies.
04 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1523 views
The New Zealand government is investing over $42 million in a Biodiscovery Platform to develop high-value pharmaceutical and bio-based exports from the country's natural resources. Led by the Bioeconomy Science Institute, this initiative aims to tap into the global market for bio-based products, particularly natural pharmaceuticals, which is expected to exceed $300 billion by 2027. By supporting research, innovation, and commercialization, the platform seeks to create jobs, grow businesses, and strengthen New Zealand's economy in alignment with the country's strategic focus on science and technology.
19 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1650 views
Associate Health Minister David Seymour highlights that Medsafe has been improving its efficiency in approving new medicines, with significant reductions in evaluation timeframes for both innovative and generic medicines. The implementation of initiatives like the Rule of Two and leveraging AI technology are expected to further expedite the approval processes. The focus is on ensuring faster access to vital medications for New Zealanders, with a commitment to a regulatory system that prioritizes timely approval without compromising safety.