SFDA Joins WHO Advisory Meeting on Complementary Medicine Strategy

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has participated in a World Health Organization (WHO) advisory meeting held in Riyadh, bringing together representatives from member states and international experts to shape the global strategy for complementary and alternative medicine over the next decade.

Context and Background

The advisory meeting, hosted in the Saudi capital, focused on finalizing the WHO 10-year strategy for complementary and alternative medicine (2025-2034). This initiative reflects growing global interest in integrating traditional and alternative therapies into national healthcare systems, with Saudi Arabia playing an active role in regulatory discussions.

The SFDA delegation engaged in detailed technical deliberations, reviewing proposals submitted by member states to ensure the strategy addresses key issues such as safety, efficacy, and quality control of herbal and complementary medical products.

Key Details

During the meeting, an SFDA representative presented specific proposals related to legislation and regulation of herbal products, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to establishing robust frameworks for product safety and consumer protection. The discussions also covered broader agenda items, including various proposals from member states, which are now set for review and approval at the upcoming WHO meeting scheduled for 2025.

The gathering underscored the Kingdom’s growing role in global health governance, as it continues to align its regulatory practices with international standards under Vision 2030.

Implications and Impact

Saudi Arabia’s active participation in shaping the WHO strategy positions the Kingdom as a key stakeholder in the future of complementary medicine worldwide. By contributing technical expertise and regulatory insights, the SFDA helps ensure that the 10-year plan reflects the needs of diverse healthcare systems while promoting patient safety.

This collaboration also strengthens Riyadh’s ties with international health organizations and enhances the country’s reputation as a hub for medical and pharmaceutical regulation in the Middle East.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The SFDA’s involvement in the WHO advisory meeting directly supports Vision 2030 goals of diversifying the economy, improving healthcare quality, and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in innovation and regulatory excellence. By influencing international health policies, the Kingdom continues to demonstrate its commitment to building a healthier, more sustainable future for its citizens and the world.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the purpose of the WHO advisory meeting in Riyadh?

A1. The meeting aimed to develop the WHO’s 10-year strategy for complementary and alternative medicine (2025-2034), focusing on technical opinions and proposals from member states.

Q2. Which Saudi authority participated in the meeting?

A2. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) represented the Kingdom, contributing regulatory expertise and proposals related to herbal product legislation.

Q3. When was the meeting held?

A3. The advisory meeting took place in Riyadh on September 27, 2024, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.

Q4. Who attended the meeting besides SFDA representatives?

A4. Representatives from WHO member states and several experts in complementary and alternative medicine participated in the discussions.

Q5. What is the focus of the WHO 10-year strategy discussed at the meeting?

A5. The strategy addresses complementary and alternative medicine from 2025 to 2034, aiming to integrate safe and effective therapies into healthcare systems globally.

Q6. What specific proposals did the SFDA present?

A6. The SFDA presented suggestions related to the legislation and regulation of herbal products, emphasizing safety and quality standards.

Q7. Why are herbal product regulations important?

A7. Proper regulations ensure consumer safety, product efficacy, and quality control, which are critical for integrating herbal medicines into national health systems.

Q8. What is the next step for the proposals discussed?

A8. The proposals will be reviewed and considered for approval at the upcoming WHO meeting scheduled for 2025.

Q9. How does this participation benefit Saudi Arabia?

A9. It positions the Kingdom as a key contributor to global health policies and enhances its role in international regulatory discussions.

Q10. What is complementary and alternative medicine?

A10. Complementary and alternative medicine includes therapies and practices outside conventional medicine, such as herbal remedies, acupuncture, and traditional treatments.

Q11. How does the SFDA contribute to global health governance?

A11. By participating in WHO meetings, the SFDA shares its regulatory expertise and helps shape international standards for medical products and public health.

Q12. What is Vision 2030’s connection to this meeting?

A12. Vision 2030 aims to improve healthcare quality and economic diversification, which includes aligning Saudi regulations with global best practices in medicine and pharmaceuticals.

Q13. Who reported on this event?

A13. The Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported the SFDA’s participation in the WHO advisory meeting.

Q14. Is this the first time Saudi Arabia has engaged with WHO on such topics?

A14. No, Saudi Arabia has a history of collaborating with the WHO on health regulations, reflecting its commitment to international health diplomacy.

Q15. What other topics might the 10-year strategy cover?

A15. The strategy likely addresses safety protocols, efficacy standards, research priorities, and integration of traditional medicine into national healthcare systems.

Q16. How does the SFDA ensure herbal product safety in Saudi Arabia?

A16. The SFDA enforces strict regulations, including testing, licensing, and monitoring of herbal products to protect public health and ensure compliance with international standards.

Q17. What role do experts play in these WHO meetings?

A17. Experts provide technical opinions and evidence-based advice to help shape the strategy, ensuring it is grounded in scientific research and best practices.

Q18. Could this strategy impact global trade in herbal products?

A18. Yes, harmonized regulations could facilitate safer trade and improve consumer confidence in herbal products across international markets.

A19. Saudi Arabia’s proactive engagement demonstrates its commitment to healthcare innovation, patient safety, and its growing leadership role in global health forums.

Q20. Where can readers find official updates on this topic?

A20. Official updates are available through the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) and the WHO’s public communications channels, ensuring transparency and accuracy.

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