Espicom's in-depth pharmaceutical market reports are ideal for executives wanting to understand the key drivers in pharmaceutical markets and have access to a wealth of statistical data. Each report opens with an outlook section that provides analysis of the market, 5-year market forecasts, national data projections, market outlook and key developments such as regulation, pricing/reimbursement, intellectual property, health facilities and government policy. The report also provides extensive background information, population trends, health status, health expenditure, organisation & administration, hospital services, medical personnel, healthcare development, market access information, trade data for raw materials and finished products and essential industry contacts. Included with the report are 3 free quarterly updated outlook reports, enabling you to keep up to date with market developments for a year. Bangladesh is one of the ten most populous countries in the world. It is also one of the poorest. Access to even the most basic of healthcare provision remains sub-standard, despite the ongoing efforts of the government, aided by considerable international assistance. Adequate secondary or tertiary care is beyond the reach of all but a very few people. Government hospitals are often little more than clinics, and suffer from severe shortages of trained staff. There is a growing private hospital sector, largely based in Dhaka, which caters for the well-off. It is in the private sector where the most advanced services are located, and where almost all pharmaceutical demand is found.

The nation is experiencing political uncertainty. A military-backed interim government under Fakrhuddin Ahmed, in power since October 2006 has been forced to declare a state of emergency. In April 2007, two prominent political figures, Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina were exiled and dozens have been killed in protests on the streets of Dhaka. Elections are expected to take place by the end of 2008, in the meantime the army is considering initiating martial law.

Given the country's lack of spending power, the pharmaceutical market, at US$650 million, remains tiny in comparison with the size of the population. Pharmaceutical spending is amongst the lowest in the world in per capita terms. Steadily improving economic performance, combined with a general determination to boost the quality of healthcare, should lead to steady, if unspectacular, market growth. With a ruling party in power holding a sizeable majority, it is hoped that legislation and initiatives regarding health and welfare issues can be implemented with greater ease and efficacy. An increase in investment in Bangladesh by multinational pharmaceutical manufacturers is also anticipated to stimulate the sector. The revised National Drug Policy was introduced in 2005 with the hope of attracting foreign multinational investment and revitalising the health sector in the long term. In addition the continually improving performance of Beximco, the leading domestic manufacturer, offers encouraging signs for the future. The market is dominated by cheap, locally produced generic drugs used for the treatment or prevention of basic illnesses and conditions.