The state group BioCubaFarma announced the arrival in Cuba of the first shipment of 81 milligram Aspirin, produced in the People's Republic of China, as part of a bilateral cooperation agreement with the company Hubei C&C, located in the city of Wuhan.
This product is part of the Basic Pharmaceutical Framework and is considered essential in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Its import is in line with the official strategy to ensure the population has access to commonly used medications.
BioCubaFarma explained that the project included a technology transfer between the Medsol Laboratories, belonging to the National Center for Scientific Research (CNIC), and the Chinese plant, under the supervision of the Center for State Control of Medicines, Equipment and Medical Devices (Cecmed).
The agreement is based on the productive infrastructure of Hubei C&C and the profits generated from the sale of PPG in China, which will support the supply. The unloading of aspirin has already begun, and the distribution of the product to hospitals and pharmacies across the country is being prepared.
BioCubaFarma indicated that it is expected to fully meet the national demand for Aspirin 81 mg by the year 2026.
Prolonged shortage of medications in the healthcare system
The announcement comes amid a prolonged crisis due to a shortage of medicines in Cuba, which has forced many citizens to purchase medications from the informal market, often without guarantees of quality or expiration dates.
For years, national drug production has drastically declined due to a lack of raw materials, low industrial capacity, and financial difficulties, which has impacted the functioning of the healthcare system and the care for chronic patients.
The regime highlights cooperation with China as a way to alleviate shortages, but most pharmacies still lack regular supplies, and families continue to face significant difficulties accessing basic treatments.
China strengthens its financial support for Cuba
The strengthening of ties between Havana and Beijing coincides with the approval by President Xi Jinping of a new round of aid to the island, which includes emergency financial assistance valued at 80 million dollars and a donation of 60,000 tons of rice, as reported by the Presidency of Cuba.
The decision was officially communicated to the ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel during a meeting with the Chinese ambassador in Havana, Hua Xin, at the Palace of the Revolution.
The funds will be allocated for the acquisition of electrical equipment and to cover other "urgent needs" of the country, in a context marked by the collapse of the national electric power system and a social crisis that affects millions of Cuban families.
Filed under: