Pharmaline: Leading the Way in Pharmaceutical Innovation and Excellence!

Born to Malia Group in 1987, Pharmaline is the pharmaceutical subsidiary of the group. With over 10 license agreements with international pharma giants and its very own extensive line of generic medications, Pharmaline has been steadily growing locally and in the region, to rightfully claim its No. 1 position in the Lebanese market. “We’re proud to have held on to our No.1 rank in value, and No.2 in quantity for the second year in a row, across the Lebanese Market,” stated Samar Hajj, Pharmaline Head of Marketing & Portfolio Management.

“This position doesn’t come for granted. In fact, it has been years in the making,” Chimed in Dr. Carol Abi Karam GM Pharmaline. With many established international and regional players in the market, seeing our own generic lines gain the trust of the Health Care Providers, as well as the subsequent users, speaks volumes about our dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence in healthcare.

So how did a company founded by a couple men grow to become a local leader and a regional player to be reckoned with? Here’s how the success story unfolds…?

It all started with a passion for improving quality of life, an embedded sense of innovation, and the belief that when you have the right tools, capabilities, skills, and talent, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Guided by a keen understanding of market demand, Pharmaline continuously develops and introduces locally manufactured generic medications. Our diverse portfolio not only improves the quality of life but also addresses the challenges faced by our patients, ensuring that essential medications are more accessible and affordable. The introduction of Empaza and Empazimet serves as a prime example of Pharmaline's dedication to innovation and responsiveness. Amidst the scarcity and high cost of international alternatives to treat type 2 diabetes, Pharmaline introduced these generics, as efficient as their innovators and endorsed by doctors from various fields. Today, these medications are being used to treat over 10,000 patients across Lebanon.

With more generics for nearly every essential, chronic, and acute disease, Pharmaline took on another ambitious mission: to reach every patient in need in Lebanon; meaning ensuring our products' availability in the total universe of pharmacies across the market. For that, our logistics and HR departments recruited necessary manpower, expanded our fleet of delivery vans, and established an efficient call cycle. As a result, Pharmaline medications are now accessible in every corner of Lebanon, from the extreme north to the extreme south, and every city, county, and village in between. This achievement is a testament to our dedication and accountability and has significantly contributed to our position as market leaders.

Simultaneously, our scientific office and team of medical representatives have built solid connections with physicians, pharmacists, and other professionals in the medical community. These ties play a pivotal role in our comprehension of healthcare needs, ensure regulatory compliance, facilitate product adoption, and strengthen our market access. The trust established in both our products and team as evidenced by the widespread prescription of Pharmaline products by doctors and their default recommendation by pharmacists, has been instrumental in our rise.

To top it all off, Pharmaline's array of initiatives, such as educational programs, internship programs, research collaboration, participation in medical conferences, digital engagement, and open-door policy for site visits, have further empowered our leading position. These efforts have not only built credibility but also aligned our products with evolving healthcare demands, leading to an increase in market share and fostering a positive reputation within the industry.

Then there’s the mindset at Pharmaline; a testament to its pioneering spirit. From the onset, the company prioritized skill and talent when expanding its team, and gender never being a barrier to entry. With merit being the main factor for recruitment, we witnessed an outstanding influx of women who eventually grew and earned key strategic positions: from GM to Plant Manager, R&D Lead, Chief of Lines, Head of Quality Assurance, Head of Marketing, Scientific Office Manager, and many others. These women took charge with fierce determination and focus, despite an industry historically dominated by men. Year after year, they have demonstrated resilience, open-mindedness, and remarkable agility in a fast-paced environment. Today, the company boasts a remarkable 52.5% women in their workforce, soaring above the gender equality ambition and ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. Their success has not only reshaped the culture at Pharmaline but has also set the tone for Malia Group's broader appreciation and support for women in leadership roles.

Finally, and here’s where it gets technical, but we must explain… our Factory! it’s truly state-of-the-art, EU GMP certified manufacturing site, and here’s why:

Located at just a few kilometers north of Beirut, and with its stunning green view, Pharmaline manufacturing site is fit to produce under license, develop its own generic and out-license its Products ‘Dossiers to potential pharmaceutical manufacturers. Our advanced manufacturing facility integrates innovative technologies and automated manufacturing processes to ensure precise, efficient, and compliant production of pharmaceuticals. It adheres to strict quality control measures, including comprehensive testing procedures and compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and regulatory standards with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability to minimize environmental impact. In 2024, Pharmaline passed Ecovadis’ assessment, and earned its commitment badge. Through our vigorous training programs, we make sure that our team members are well-equipped with the latest skills and knowledge enabling us to produce high-quality pharmaceuticals in a safe and efficient manner.

The No. 1 position “doesn’t come for granted […] it has been years in the making.” It’s the direct result of our researchers, scientists, engineers, medical representatives, marketing, sales, regulatory, market access, portfolio management, production, quality and the many behind-the-scenes departments members' perfect mindset, focus, and execution of our mission and goals. and now that we’re here, Pharmaline and Malia Group have bigger ambitions and a bigger purpose. So, stay tuned as we pursue our commitment to improve quality of life, for people and planet.