The pharmaceutical industry is undergoing a transformative shift with the emergence of cold chain pharmaceutical networks. These networks are revolutionizing the storage, transportation, and distribution of pharmaceuticals.
Advancements in healthcare have led to increased demand for pharmaceuticals globally. The rollout of COVID-19 vaccines in 2021 underscored the importance of cold chain logistics, prompting significant investments. Global expenditure on biopharma cold chain logistics is expected to reach 21.3 billion USD this year, up from 15.4 billion in 2018.
The Rise of Cold Chain Pharmaceuticals
Medicines requiring cold storage are claiming a growing share of the pharmaceutical market. In 2022, they comprised 35% of the market, up from 26% in 2017, with this trend expected to continue. Approximately half of all medicines set to launch in the next five years will require cold storage and distribution.
While major pharmaceutical companies dominate cold chain medicine sales, the expiration of patents often leads to production shifts to emerging markets. This geographic shift mirrors trends seen in other sectors, presenting both challenges and opportunities for the pharmaceutical industry.
Balancing Production and Market Dynamics
The shift in production to emerging markets is not without its challenges. While it allows for cost-efficient production, it also necessitates the development of robust cold chain pharmaceutical networks in these regions. However, closer proximity to final markets can mitigate some supply chain issues.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the downside of over-reliance on distant production centers, with key markets experiencing shortages of generic medicines and supply chain disruptions. Pharmaceutical companies must strike a balance in supply chain localization to optimize cost, efficiency, and reliability.
Transitioning from Air to Sea Freight
Traditionally, air freight has been favored for pharmaceutical transport due to its speed. However, concerns over temperature fluctuations during air transport have prompted a shift towards ocean transport, offering greater control over temperature conditions.
Ocean transport not only provides more control over temperature regulation but also aligns with sustainability efforts. With reducing air transport being a significant decarbonization strategy, ocean solutions offer a more energy-efficient alternative.
The Hybrid Approach: Optimizing Supply Chains
While each mode of transport has its advantages, a hybrid approach combining sea and air transport offers the best of both worlds. By balancing cost, sustainability, and lead times, pharmaceutical companies can ensure reliable and efficient supply chains.
As pharmaceutical markets evolve and demand grows, so too must supply chain strategies adapt. Innovations in cold chain pharmaceutical networks and transportation modes are not only meeting current challenges but also paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future in pharmaceutical logistics.
