An exploration into the feasability of a research and development cluster in the South African phamaceutical industry

Abstract

This pharmaceutical industry faces many challenges and a decision made one way or the other could pave the way for spectacular success or failure. Over the last ten years, the South Africa (SA) government has actively promoted research and development in human health and local diseases through an extensive series of funding and investment programmes. Unfortunately, to date the strategy has not yielded the results hoped for. An exploratory, in-depth interview based study was conducted in order to inform the feasibility of using a focussed cluster strategy that directs investment on only the most critical of national health priorities that have an effective market and potential for global export growth. There were two main areas identified as potential for a cluster strategy fulfilling the requirements listed which have informed the recommendations for collaboration and partnering in the form of a programme exhibiting an appreciation for the tension and ambiguity that exists between the goals for social good and the economic motive of the private sector creating a shared benefits. Copyright