The main priorities for the new chief executive of Japan’s drugs regulator over the next five years include putting patients first by promoting early access while ensuring safety, further strengthening pharmacovigilance as new forms of therapy come through, and increasing collaboration with Asia, as the agency looks to meet the challenges of changing technologies.
Dr Yasuhiro Fujiwara, the new chief executive of Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), is unhesitant and clear when asked about the key priorities for his initial five-year tenure.
“There are four points as my main goals: patients first, improving treatment access, ensuring safety, and building collaboration with Asia.”