NSF, IDMA enhance cGMP frame

NSF and IDMA will develop a tailored cGMP-centred framework for nutraceutical manufacturers

NSF, a leading global public health and safety organisation, announced a formal partnership with the Indian Drug Manufacturers’ Association (IDMA) to provide a tailored Current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) framework for the country’s nutraceutical manufacturers.

The joint effort was made official at a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing ceremony, attended by NSF’s leadership team, including Pedro Sancha, President and Chief Executive Officer; Scott Morris, Senior Vice President of International Markets and Laboratories; and Jyoti Bhasin, Managing Director, APAC. IDMA Senior Vice President, Dr George A Patani and Dr RK Sanghavi, Chairman, Nutra Committee, were also present.

Dr George A Patani said, “This strategic partnership will strengthen the Indian nutraceutical industry by establishing rigorous cGMP standards tailored to local regulatory and operational requirements while aligning with global best practices. The significant milestone underscores the strong partnership between IDMA and NSF in various industries, including dietary supplements, food for special dietary use, food for special medical purposes, functional food and novel food, herein referred collectively as “nutraceuticals.”

“In recognising the evolving requirements of manufacturers in India, this collaboration between NSF and IDMA presents an opportunity to fulfil industry needs through a tiered approach. Together, we are committed to supporting local businesses while also meeting the demands of international trade and exports. By offering a suite of services and customising them to reflect local nuances and regulatory frameworks, we are committed to paving the way for success,” said Jyoti Bhasin, Managing Director, NSF APAC.

As outlined in the MoU, NSF and IDMA will work together in the following areas:

• Development of cGMP requirements. NSF and IDMA will develop a tailored cGMP framework for nutraceutical manufacturers based on global best practices.
• Audit and certification services. NSF will perform independent audits to evaluate compliance with cGMP standards and issue certifications to qualifying manufacturers.
• Capacity building and technical support. Both parties will co-host training programmes and workshops to enhance industry capacity and understanding of cGMP requirements.
• Industry engagement. IDMA will engage NSF with its members to promote cGMP programme participation and coordinate training sessions.

“NSF is proud to once again partner with IDMA and support nutraceutical manufacturers across the country,” said Pedro Sancha, President and Chief Executive Officer of NSF. “This initiative exemplifies our ‘Glocal’ strategy, which focuses on responding to local market demands using services grounded in global support. With the nutraceutical market expected to reach 30 per cent of the pharmaceutical sector, this partnership between NSF and IDMA is key to advancing India’s manufacturing standards and unlocking tremendous growth potential.”

Dr RK Sanghavi, Chairman, Nutra Committee of IDMA, remarked, “IDMA is proud to collaborate with NSF to elevate the standards of health supplement and nutraceutical manufacturing in India. This MoU is effective and continues to reflect the intent of both parties to work in good faith towards the shared goals in the Indian nutraceutical sector.”