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EFPIA welcomes the future location of the EMA decision has been made; now the focus must be on transition

EFPIA congratulates Amsterdam on being selected as the new location for the European Medicines Agency. The EMA plays a key role in Europe's health, ensuring that medicines are safe, effective and of high quality. As an industry, we look forward to working with the Dutch government to support the transition of the agency.

Commenting on the decision, EFPIA President, Dr. Stefan Oschmann said. “Now the decision has been made, all authorities and stakeholders need to collaborate to support the agency in making the move to Amsterdam. It is vital to ensure the continuity of the EMA’s critical functions, its ability to retain staff and access expert networks. EFPIA and its members are committed to supporting this process.”

The location of the EMA is just one of a number of critical medicine issues relating to Brexit where action is needed to protect patient safety and public health. As EFPIA Director General, Nathalie Moll underlined, “Even in the context of the Brexit negotiations where all sectors are looking for clarity on the future, it is important to recognise that the medicines sector is different. The medicines we make impact directly on peoples’ health.” She went on to say, “Securing transitional arrangements and long-term cooperation on medicines regulation between the UK and EU is the best way of ensuring that patients across Europe continue to have access to safe and effective medicines.”