- In May 2024, the King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC) in Saudi Arabia partnered with Thermo Fisher Scientific to co-develop advanced cell culture media tailored for regional biomedical research and clinical applications. This collaboration aims to support national efforts in vaccine development, oncology research, and regenerative medicine, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s leadership in biopharmaceutical innovation and localized research infrastructure
- In April 2024, South Africa’s Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) announced the expansion of its cell biology research division with the establishment of a state-of-the-art culture media lab. This facility will focus on developing serum-free and chemically defined media for stem cell and tissue engineering applications, supporting local biopharma firms and academic researchers with high-quality, GMP-compliant products
- In March 2024, Dubai Science Park (UAE) launched a joint initiative with global biotech supplier Lonza Group AG to offer technical training and workshops on custom media formulation for regional biotech startups. The program is designed to accelerate innovation in personalized medicine and biologics manufacturing by improving the technical expertise of researchers and lab professionals across the UAE.
- In February 2024, the Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA) approved the establishment of Egypt’s first GMP-certified facility for the production of cell culture media components. This milestone, supported by international aid and public-private partnerships, is expected to enhance Egypt’s capabilities in producing locally sourced media for vaccine and biologics production, reducing reliance on imports and ensuring supply chain resilience
- In January 2024, Nigeria’s National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) partnered with a UK-based biotech company to pilot the use of regionally optimized culture media in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) research. This initiative focuses on developing affordable and context-specific media solutions for diagnostic and academic use, addressing local healthcare challenges and strengthening Nigeria’s biomedical research ecosystem
