The European Industrial Pharmacists Group (EIPG) held its 2026 General Assembly in Lisbon on 16–17 May, marking a significant milestone as the organisation celebrated its 60th anniversary. The event was hosted by the Portuguese Ordem dos Farmacêuticos and brought together delegates representing associations of industrial pharmacists from 15 European countries.
Opening and Strategic Overview
EIPG President, Anni Svala, opened the Assembly by presenting an overview of the organisation’s mission to promote and strengthen the role of industrial pharmacists across Europe. She highlighted key strategic priorities for the organisation, including:
- Enhancing EIPG’s voice and visibility at the European level
- Empowering national delegates to increase engagement and impact
- Ensuring long-term continuity and influence of the association
These priorities set the tone for discussions focused on strengthening EIPG’s relevance and impact in an evolving regulatory and professional landscape.
Reports from the Executive Team
The Executive Committee provided updates on key activities:
- Alexia Rensonnet, Vice President of EU Affairs, reported on her engagement with European stakeholders, including participation in the European Medicines Agency (EMA) Industry Standing Group. She also outlined ongoing work related to new pharmaceutical legislation priorities at EU level.
- Astrid Thorissen, Vice President of Education and Careers, presented progress on initiatives aimed at professional development, including the development of an artificial intelligence (AI) policy paper and the delivery of educational webinars.
- Carmen Garcia, Vice President for Technical Affairs, reported on EIPG’s contributions to EMA consultations and active participation in meetings with “Interested Parties”, where EIPG is recognised as a key stakeholder.
- Janka Kocsis, Country delegate (Hungary) presented the work of the EIPG working group on Environmental Sustainability. She introduced the group’s position paper, described as a “living document”, emphasising the need to increase awareness and knowledge among industrial pharmacists regarding environmental impacts throughout the medicines lifecycle.
Keynote on European Pharmaceutical Legislation
A central highlight of the Assembly was a keynote presentation by Teresa Carvalho, President of the Specialty Board of Regulatory Affairs at the Portuguese Pharmaceutical Society. She provided a comprehensive overview of the forthcoming European pharmaceutical legislation.
The proposed legislative framework aims to create a future-proof regulatory environment addressing:
- Patient access to medicines
- Supply chain security
- Competitiveness of the pharmaceutical industry
The reforms are expected to be finalised by 2027 and fully implemented by 2029, underscoring the importance of continued stakeholder engagement during the transition period.
Working Groups and Strategic Discussions
To further strengthen EIPG’s position at European level, delegates actively participated in two dedicated working groups:
- Working Group 1, led by Maurizio Battistini and Astrid Thorissen, focused on organisational development.
- Working Group 2, led by Alexia Rensonnet and Carmen Garcia, addressed strategies to increase EIPG’s influence and visibility in European stakeholder and decision-making processes.
Strategic Plan 2026–2027
Based on plenary discussions, President Anni Svala presented a renewed strategic plan for 2026–2027. The plan focuses on increasing EIPG’s value proposition and expanding its membership base.
Elections
The General Assembly also included the election of two Vice Presidents for a three-year mandate:
- Astrid Thorissen (Netherlands) was re-elected as Vice President of Education and Careers
- Salla Silén (Finland) was elected as Vice President of Communications
Member Engagement and Contributions
The Assembly provided a valuable platform for delegates to present updates on their national associations, including ongoing activities and areas where they can contribute to EIPG’s work, based on their expertise and available resources.
Acknowledgements
The EIPG extends its sincere appreciation to the Portuguese Ordem dos Farmacêuticos for hosting the event and for their outstanding hospitality. Special thanks were addressed to Mr. José Veracruz, President of the Industrial Pharmacists Section and Mr. Diogo Morim, International Affairs and Youth Lead at the Portuguese Pharmaceutical Society.
