The ISPE Singapore Conference 2009, being held from 31 May to 2 June, features 35 highly qualified speakers from 11 countries. Organised jointly by Reed Exhibitions and ISPE (International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering), the conference is held concurrently with Interphex Asia 2009.

With the theme 'Advancing Excellence and Innovation in Regional Pharmaceutical Manufacturing', the ISPE Singapore conference programme places equal emphasis on providing insights and solutions on issues relating to the manufacturing processes facing both multinational corporations and local enterprises in the region. Elevating awareness and updates on regulatory issues, picture adoption and harmonisation, key insights on sustainable solutions, challenges of outsourcing manufacturing processes, challenges in validation of processes and the development of biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes will all be discussed at the various sessions of the conference.

Joseph Famulare, deputy director from the Office of Compliance of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), presented the regulatory keynote during the plenary session and share guidance on how manufacturers can maintain consistent high quality production and improve efficiency.

Sia Chong Hock, Division director, Health Sciences Authority, said, "Globalization and international pharmaceutical developments pose challenges to the regulator and the industry. Collaboration via regional and multi-lateral agreements and other 'work-sharing' programmes, is the most appropriate strategic direction for regulatory agencies. From an industry perspective, conformance to international regulatory standards and best practices, appears to be the way forward in meeting the regulatory requirements of both the domestic and export markets."

Singapore has established a reputation for providing advanced manufacturing capabilities as well as expertise in process development and automation technologies. This is evident with the recent news reports on the building of new plants in Singapore by Lonza and Alcon, which only serves to highlight the high potential of Asia despite the economic slowdown.

This year, Interphex Asia received positive support with 90 participating companies from 16 countries, and in addition, two official pavilions led by Ireland and Singapore.

Says Michelle Lim, general manager, Reed Exhibitions, "Interphex Asia has been recognised as a regional exhibition that provides a dedicated platform for the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. This year we are delighted to have the Singapore Academy of GxP Excellence (SAGE) as our partner, a positive signal that the industry acknowledges Interphex Asia as a key event for pharmaceutical professionals. We are aware of the critical need to bring together international suppliers, industry regulators and pharmaceutical manufacturers in Asia, and Interphex Asia and the ISPE Singapore Conference's key objective is to achieve that."

She added, "The strong participation and support from the industry, is especially encouraging at a time of global economic slowdown. It re-affirms Interphex Asia / ISPE Singapore Conference's pivotal role in promoting learning, networking and sharing of best practices in pharmaceutical manufacturing excellence."

Reed Exhibitions is the world's leading events organiser. In 2007 Reed brought together over six million industry professionals from around the world generating billions of dollars in business.