For several first-generation biologic medicines, including the biologic agent Remicade, the internationally established patent protection period is approaching expiration. This development allows new pharmaceutical manufacturers to develop and produce biosimilar medicines. As many of you may know, Remicade is highly effective and is administered to a significant number of patients living with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. In Europe, the pharmaceutical company Alvogen has already obtained European approval for a medicine similar to Remicade under the brand name Inflectra. Another company, the South Korean-based Celltrion, has also announced plans to seek approval for its product marketed under the name CT-P13. According to Petar Vazharov of Alvogen, Inflectra offers a more affordable yet equally effective treatment option for patients suffering from inflammatory diseases, while also providing significant cost-saving opportunities for European Union healthcare systems. (In the United States, Remicade’s exclusivity period was due to expire in 2018.) Cost reductions of up to 40% have been projected in some countries. As the Cyprus Crohn’s and Colitis Association (CYCCA), we are closely monitoring developments in this area. We will soon be holding discussions with the Cyprus Gastroenterology Society and subsequently with the Ministry of Health. We have already......