2025-11-04

In this exclusive interview, Katerina Filunets, General Manager of ITE Dubai, discusses why now is the ideal moment for Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers to expand into Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) — highlighting key growth areas, regulatory support, and how platforms like Pharmtech & Ingredients are helping Indian companies connect directly with regional buyers and decision-makers.

Q. What specific opportunities exist for Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), especially in APIs, formulations and ingredients?

Russia and the CIS are actively diversifying suppliers for APIs, formulations and ingredients. With healthcare spending rising and policies encouraging localisation, Indian manufacturers have a timely opportunity to step in as trusted partners to increase regional production.  

Q. From ITE’s data, which pharma segments (e.g., generic drugs, vaccines, nutraceuticals, active ingredients) are most in demand in Russia/CIS, where Indian manufacturers can step in?

Our exhibitor and buyer insights highlight strong demand in APIs and nutraceuticals, alongside consistent interest in generics and innovative formulations — areas where Indian manufacturers are globally competitive.

Q. How do you see India’s established pharma manufacturing base being positioned as a competitive advantage in these markets?

India’s blend of cost-efficient scale, internationally recognised standards and a highly skilled workforce makes its pharma sector a strong and reliable supplier as Russia and CIS markets reduce reliance on traditional suppliers.

Q.  How does participation in Pharmtech & Ingredients help Indian manufacturers showcase their capabilities to global buyers?

Pharmtech & Ingredients is Russia’s largest pharma manufacturing B2B event, bringing thousands of decision-makers from R&D, procurement and government. It enables Indian companies to showcase their capabilities, demonstrate compliance and secure direct access to buyers on a single platform.

Q. Many Indian pharma manufacturers are SMEs — what tailored support does ITE povide to help them scale and export successfully?

We work closely with chambers and export councils to offer group pavilions, matchmaking services and market briefings. This lowers entry barriers and ensures SMEs can focus on showcasing their products to the right buyers.

Q. How does ITE guide Indian manufacturers in understanding and meeting CIS/EAEU regulatory and quality standards?

We provide regulatory sessions, expert-led workshops, and direct access to compliance advisors at our events. This equips Indian exporters with the clarity needed to align with EAEU standards and build long-term trust.

Q. Beyond drugs, what scope do you see for Indian manufacturers of pharma machinery, packaging or lab equipment in these markets?

Demand is strong across machinery, packaging, lab equipment and cleanroom solutions, driven by localisation goals and investment in modernising facilities. Indian manufacturers can bring cost-efficient, high-quality solutions to meet this need.

Q. What makes this the right moment for Indian pharma manufacturers to prioritise Russia/CIS as an export market?

With supply chain shifts and global suppliers moving, Russia and CIS markets are open for new partners. Indian exporters have a first-mover advantage if they act now to establish a strong presence and build long-lasting partnerships.

Q. How do you see the role of Indian manufacturers shaping Russia’s pharmaceutical and healthcare supply chains over the next 5–7 years?

Indian manufacturers are poised to become core strategic partners — ensuring a steady supply of essential APIs, generics and ingredients while also contributing machinery and packaging solutions that support Russia’s self-sufficiency goals.

Q. In one line, why should an Indian pharma manufacturer choose ITE exhibitions as their entry point to Russia/CIS?

Because Pharmtech & Ingredients connect Indian pharma directly with over 10,000 verified buyers, regulators and decision-makers — offering a fast-track to trust and trade in Russia and CIS markets.