On Saturday, the governor of Bahia, Jerônimo Rodrigues, signed a significant partnership agreement with India aimed at producing four high-complexity cancer medications in the state. The agreement, formalized during the India-Brazil Business Forum 2026 in New Delhi, includes the production of important drugs such as Nivolumab and Pertuzumab, which are crucial for treating breast and lung cancer, in addition to multiple myeloma.

The collaboration, facilitated through BahiaFarma, is designed to enhance the local healthcare infrastructure by allowing the transfer of technology to Bahia. This initiative is expected to expand access to cutting-edge treatments for cancer patients through the Unified Health System (SUS), which indicates that more individuals will benefit from advanced medical care without the prohibitive costs often associated with such treatments.

Governor Jerônimo Rodrigues emphasized the partnership's dual significance: while it directly addresses the healthcare needs of the state's population, it also serves as a platform to showcase Bahia’s potential to attract Indian investments across various sectors. By fostering relationships with Indian pharmaceutical companies, Rodrigues aims to promote broader economic development and innovation in the region, thus enhancing not only health outcomes but also overall investment opportunities in Bahia's economy.