Pfizer, Pharma Sector Fight On Protection IPR

Multinational drug-maker Pfizer and a key association of the Indian pharmaceutical industry have locked horns over the protection of intellectual property in India. The issue was triggered after Pfizer Inc’s Chief intellectual property counsel, Roy F. Waldron gave written testimony to US trade sub-committee stating “the issuance of unwarranted compulsory licenses, the unfair revocation of valid patents, and the denial of patentability of inventions in India were areas of concern for US companies operating in India”. The Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) has strongly replied stating that the Indian patent regime did not discriminate between domestic and foreign companies. The IPA stated, “It distinguishes only between innovation and discovery of new forms of known substances that do not result in the enhancement of efficacy.”

SOURCE: www.hindubusinessline.com