President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil has embarked on an official visit to New Delhi, India, accompanied by various business leaders and healthcare officials, with the primary goal of reducing Brazil's deficit in pharmaceutical inputs, particularly Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), and to seek technology transfer for the Brazilian healthcare industry. Current estimates suggest that Brazil produces only a meager 5% of the pharmaceutical inputs required for its industry, with China and India being the leading suppliers.

During this visit, key members from Brazil's health ministry, including Health Minister Alexandre Padilha, are engaging directly with Indian counterparts to initiate discussions on technology transfer that would address critical needs of Brazil's Unified Health System (SUS). The focus is on securing access to necessary medications, vaccines, and biotechnological advancements that are essential for the country's healthcare framework. This move reflects a strategic pivot by Lula's administration to foster international partnerships in health, particularly with countries that possess advanced capabilities.

In addition to India, President Lula's trip also included a brief stop in Seoul, South Korea, highlighting the broader scope of Brazil's diplomatic outreach to invigorate its healthcare supply chain. The presence of numerous health sector representatives during the mission emphasizes the importance of collaboration to bridge the current gaps in Brazil's pharmaceutical production. According to Reginaldo Arcuri, president of Grupo Farma Brasil, the support from Indian companies could significantly enhance Brazil's capacity to meet local health requirements effectively and sustainably.