From Commodity to Critical: Reframing APIs for Complex Formulations and Resilient Supply
Day 2 Supply & Formulation Excellence Stage
07/10/2026 11:00 - 11:30am
Contributors
Elisabeth Stampa : CEO & Board member - Medichem SA
As pharmaceutical formulations become more sophisticated and global supply chains more volatile, the strategic role of active pharmaceutical ingredients is being redefined. APIs can no longer be assessed solely through the traditional procurement lens of price. For many products, they are critical determinants of formulation performance, manufacturability, regulatory continuity and security of supply.
This session explores how manufacturers can move from transactional sourcing towards a differentiated API strategy: when an API can remain a commodity, when it requires a strategic supplier partnership, and when selective vertical integration can create competitive advantage.The central message is clear: not every API is strategic, but failing to identify those that are can put product development, market access and long-term supply at risk.