Thu, 17 June 2004
Researched Medicines Industry Association Declares Support For JTA
The Researched Medicines Industry Association of New Zealand (RMI) declared today (June 17, 2004) that it fully supports
the establishment of the Australia-New Zealand Joint Therapeutics Agency (JTA). Lesley Clarke, Chief Executive Officer
of the RMI, the professional and trade organisation of New Zealand's research-based pharmaceutical industry said: `We
believe that the JTA will provide our member companies with a single point of entry to Australasia for new innovative
researched-based medicines. It will establish a first class regulatory system, which will equip New Zealand for the 21st
century. And most importantly, New Zealanders will be assured that their therapeutic products will be safe, effective
and of the highest quality.
`New Zealand and Australian companies will benefit from being part of a larger regional grouping with products
controlled under the auspices of a respected regulatory authority with sufficient critical mass to ensure world-class
evaluation, control and audit functions. A common regulatory regime will also provide access to a greater pool of
scientific expertise. In turn, these factors will provide consumers with rapid access to new and innovative medicines.
'Increasing the profile of New Zealand as a market for therapeutic products and place to conduct research activities
will also help achieve the RMI's and the New Zealand Government's stated aims of stimulating international investment in
the New Zealand knowledge economy.'
About the RMI The RMI's 18 member companies are engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of
prescription medicines and the ongoing improvement of medical and scientific knowledge about their products for the
benefit of all New Zealanders.
ENDS