On 4 November 2025, IFPMA delivered a statement on patents and health at the WIPO Standing Committee on Patents (SCP 37) in Geneva.

The International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations (IFPMA) represents the global research-based biopharmaceutical industry. We appreciate the opportunity to address the Committee on patents and health.

Intellectual property is fundamental to advancing medical innovation. It has enabled the development of transformative medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics that improve and save lives, strengthen health systems, drive economic growth, and health security. Developing a new medicine requires significant investment, estimated at around 2.6 billion dollars, with only a tiny fraction, 0.01%, of compounds successfully reaching the market. Intellectual property rights therefore play a vital role in recognizing the risks and resources required to bring safe and effective medicines and vaccines to people. IP is critical to fostering the research and partnerships necessary to meet global health needs.

WIPO’s 2022 annual report highlights that the social value of innovation supported by IP exceeds private returns by more than 800 times. In the past decade, more than 1,400 new medicines for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were launched and currently 9,600 are in development for these diseases, demonstrating what is possible when innovation is protected and partnerships are encouraged.

To address access concerns, recent IFPMA research shows that increased investment in health systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), is key to addressing noncommunicable diseases. A 1% increase in public health expenditure, where 40% is directed to primary NCD care, could save up to 5 million lives annually in LMICs. Strengthening health workforces and investing in prevention will also reduce hospitalizations and relieve pressure on health systems.

In this regard, we call for collective action to:

• Sustain a robust and predictable IP framework
• Mobilize investment to strengthen health systems
• Implement effective NCD prevention and care programs
• Enhance collaboration and accountability among all stakeholders
• Address trade related barriers
• Strengthen supply chains and regulatory systems.

IFPMA would also like to thank the Secretariat and Member States for inviting IFPMA and our members to participate in the discussions on patent databases and technology transfer panels. IFPMA remains committed to working with WIPO, Member States, academia, international organizations, and civil society to address healthcare challenges.

About IFPMA

IFPMA represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry at the international level, engaging in official relations with the United Nations and multilateral organizations. Our vision is to ensure that scientific progress translates into the next generation of medicines and vaccines that deliver a healthier future for people everywhere.

To achieve this, we act as a trusted partner, bringing our members' expertise to champion pharmaceutical innovation, drive policy that supports the research, development, and delivery of health technologies, and create sustainable solutions that advance global health.

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WIPO Standing Committee on Patents (SCP 37): Patents and health