Federal CDU Chairman Friedrich Merz wants to strengthen the competitiveness of the European pharmaceutical industry. The pharmaceutical industry is needed in Europe and in Germany, he said during a visit to the pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) in Dresden. It is an "important part of our healthcare system", not only for patients, but also for the industry as a whole. "Competition in the European industry also means ensuring security of supply internally," said Merz.
The coronavirus pandemic has led to a change in opinion. "We suddenly realized what we don't have, for example, that we hardly have any researching and producing pharmaceutical companies left in Europe." Europe has become dependent on China and India. When it comes to antibiotics, for example, there is only one plant in Austria in Europe.
Merz also addressed the issue of vaccination skepticism, which is more widespread in Germany than previously thought. However, children in particular need vaccinations. The risk should not be denied. "Every vaccine can have side effects, but no vaccine has much greater side effects," said Merz. He advocated a campaign by politicians and companies. People should get vaccinated, especially their children.
GSK produces vaccines against influenza and hepatitis at its Dresden plant. According to the company, two million vaccine doses are produced every week. Around 800 employees plus trainees work at this site.
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