Bangladesh launches local insulin production
Move cuts prices, boosts access for millions with diabetes and signals Bangladesh entry into advanced biopharma manufacturing
DHAKA, Bangladesh (MNTV) — Bangladesh has begun producing modern insulin domestically for the first time, a major step toward lowering treatment costs and improving access for millions living with diabetes while reducing reliance on imports.
The breakthrough comes through a technology transfer partnership between a leading Bangladeshi drugmaker, Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd., and Denmark-based Novo Nordisk, one of the world’s largest insulin producers. The collaboration allows Bangladesh to manufacture advanced insulin products locally using internationally standardized processes.
Under the agreement, premix and rapid-acting insulin cartridges — widely used in diabetes management — will now be produced within the country. Each batch will be verified in Denmark to ensure it meets global quality and safety benchmarks, a key requirement for complex biologic medicines such as insulin.
Officials say the move represents a broader shift toward self-reliance in healthcare, enabling Bangladesh to stabilize supply chains and reduce exposure to global price fluctuations. It also marks an upgrade in the country’s pharmaceutical capabilities, moving beyond generic drug production into high-value biologics.
The initiative brings immediate financial relief for patients. Novo Nordisk’s Bangladesh unit announced an 18% reduction in prices of key insulin products, including NovoMix® and NovoRapid®, alongside the start of local manufacturing.
Bangladesh is facing a rapidly growing diabetes burden, with nearly 13 million people currently affected — a number projected to rise to around 22 million by 2045. Expanding domestic production is therefore seen as critical to ensuring long-term, affordable access to life-saving treatment.
Beyond public health, the development signals Bangladesh’s entry into advanced biopharmaceutical manufacturing — a sector dominated by a handful of global players. Industry observers say successful execution of such technology transfers could position the country as a regional production hub, attracting further international partnerships and investment.
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