About Us

Introduction – Who We Are

Generics and Biosimilar Medicines of Southern Africa (GBMSA) is a leading industry association dedicated to ensuring affordable, high-quality healthcare solutions for all South Africans. As the voice of the generic and biosimilar pharmaceutical sector, we advocate for greater access to safe, effective, and cost-efficient medicines through industry collaboration, education, and policy engagement.

Our Mission is to:

Enhance accessibility to life-saving medications.

Promote the benefits of generic and biosimilar medicines.

Support regulatory alignment to ensure the highest quality standards.

Engage with stakeholders to drive healthcare transformation.

GBMSA was formerly known as the National Association of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers (NAPM). The transition from NAPM to GBMSA reflects our expanded role in the healthcare sector, aligning with global advancements and national healthcare needs.

Global Industry Engagement & International Representation

As a proud member of the International Generic and Biosimilar Medicines Association (IGBA), GBMSA provides its members with valuable opportunities for global networking, industry insights, and educational activities. Our participation in IGBA allows us to contribute to crucial discussions with key international organisations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), World Trade Organization (WTO), World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), and the International Council for Harmonisation (ICH). Through these engagements, we help shape international healthcare policies, trade regulations, and pharmaceutical development standards, ensuring that the interests of the generics and biosimilars industry are well represented on a global stage.

GBMSA actively informs and influences policy and regulatory frameworks within the Southern African Development Community (SADC). By closely monitoring industry developments across Africa, we provide timely updates to our members on changes in the pharmaceutical and regulatory landscape, helping them navigate an evolving market with confidence.

Expanding Global Influence & Advancing Generics Education

At GBMSA, we are committed to broadening international engagement and educating stakeholders about the vital role of generic and biosimilar medicines in ensuring accessible healthcare.

Advancing Generics & Biosimilars Education 

Education is at the core of our mission, and GBMSA is dedicated to finding innovative and impactful ways to inform stakeholders about the benefits of generic and biosimilar medicines. Through strategic public education initiatives, we aim to strengthen the understanding and acceptance of generics, ensuring that more people have access to high-quality, affordable healthcare solutions.

Our efforts extend beyond awareness—we actively advocate for a thriving generics industry by collaborating with government bodies, healthcare institutions, and industry leaders to drive policies that support greater market access and fair pricing structures. By fostering an informed and competitive pharmaceutical sector, we help create a healthcare environment where patients, medical professionals, and businesses alike can benefit from the cost-saving advantages of generic and biosimilar medicines.

Be Part of the Global Movement for Affordable Medicines

By joining GBMSA, your organisation becomes part of an international network of industry leaders, regulatory experts, and policymakers, working together to drive the future of generics and biosimilars in South Africa and beyond. Whether through global advocacy, policy engagement, or public education, we are committed to ensuring that safe, effective, and affordable medicines remain accessible to all.

Our Members