TAIPEI, TAIWAN – The Federation of Asian Pharmaceutical Associations (FAPA) proudly announces the addition of the Nepal Pharmaceutical Association (NPA) to its esteemed community of pharmaceutical leaders. The decision, finalized during the Closed Council Meeting on October 24, 2023, at the Taipei International Convention Center (TICC), signifies FAPA’s commitment to fostering global collaboration within the pharmaceutical industry.

At the grand opening ceremony of the 29th FAPA Congress, a moment of significant recognition unfolded as NPA received an official welcome into the FAPA family. Dr. Yolanda Robles, President of FAPA, presented Mr. Nirmal Raj Marasine, the representative of NPA, with a certificate of membership and a symbolic FAPA ribbon, embodying the spirit of unity and collaboration.

Established in 1972 A.D. (2028), NPA stands as a professional organization comprising individuals dedicated to the pharmaceutical sector. Founded with a vision of achieving professional growth and fostering greater collaboration among healthcare providers, NPA has played a pivotal role in improving patient health outcomes in Nepal.

The journey of NPA, initiated by Dr. Purosattam Narayan Suwal, the first president with 27 members, has evolved over 45 years to encompass over 1000 members. Despite facing challenges, NPA has thrived and achieved significant milestones, including the establishment of the Nepal Pharmacy Council in 2000 A.D. (2058 B.S). This collaborative effort with NPA focuses on enhancing the quality of pharmacy education in Nepal, reflecting NPA’s commitment to academic, professional, product, and manufacturing quality.

Quality healthcare services have remained a cornerstone of NPA’s mission, with a strong belief that these services should be accessible to the general population at the most affordable prices. NPA actively engages in the manufacturing sector, providing technical support, training, and seminars on Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to employees. Scientific sessions are regularly organized to disseminate up-to-date information in the field.

In the current context, NPA is at the forefront of developing hospital pharmacy services in government hospitals, attracting recent graduate pharmacists to community pharmacy roles. The organization is dedicated to grooming hospital and community pharmacists for sustainability, ensuring a robust future for the pharmaceutical landscape in Nepal.

NPA’s global affiliations, including membership in the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) and SEARPharma Forum, underscore its commitment to international cooperation. As a member of FAPA, NPA represents the pharmacists’ apex body, Nepal Pharmacy Council, and other health professionals in the Nepal Health Professional Council. The organization actively contributes technical suggestions to the government through the Drug Advisory Committee.

The history of NPA, tracing back to its humble beginnings in 1972 A.D. (2028 BS), showcases a legacy of growth and contributions to the pharmaceutical and medicinal plants sector in Nepal. With over 800 members and two chapters in Kaski and Lumbini, NPA remains steadfast in expanding its activities across different regions of the country.

FAPA welcomes NPA with open arms, embracing a new era of collaboration, knowledge exchange, and shared progress within the Asian pharmaceutical community. Together, they look forward to advancing healthcare standards, fostering innovation, and contributing to the dynamic evolution of the pharmaceutical sector in the region.