How Companies in Colombia Can Source Pharmaceutical Products From India

India is now a key player in the global pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. It manufactures thousands of different medicines, including medicines that it exports to many different countries around the world. Millions of patients worldwide and healthcare providers trust medicines made in India because they are safe, affordable, and manufactured to high regulatory standards.

With that said, Colombia would greatly benefit from importing pharmaceuticals from India. The purpose of this guide is to help companies in Colombia identify ways of importing Indian pharmaceuticals safely, effectively, and in compliance with regulations. (Read: Why global pharma companies choose India for CDMO)

Why India Is a Reliable Source for Pharmaceutical Products

High Safety Standards: 

India uses an established and recognized regulatory framework for pharma manufacturing. Many Indian manufacturers hold internationally accepted certifications, which indicates that medicines are manufactured safely, hygienically, and within a licensed, compliant facility. Some of these certifications include:

• WHO-GMP (Read: How Indian CDMOs Comply with USFDA, EU-GMP, and WHO-GMP Standards)
• USFDA
• EU-GMP
• MHRA

Affordable Medicines

India is recognized globally for producing medicines at a lower cost while maintaining quality because of:

• Large-scale manufacturing facilities
• Lower cost of raw materials
• A trained workforce
• Lower cost of supply chain
• High competition in market

Lowered cost of manufacture is beneficial to Colombia because it means:

• Higher profit margins for companies
• Lower treatment costs for patients

Large Production Capacity

India hosts thousands of pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities capable of producing:

• Tablets
• Capsules
• Syrups
• Drops
• Creams and ointments
• Injections
• Eye and ear care products
• Oncology products

High-capacity plants can deliver large quantities quickly, ensuring:

• Dependable Supply for Colombian Companies
• Reduced Risks of Delays or Shortages

Safe & Reliable Shipping

India is exporting its pharmaceuticals to many countries and has strong, clear procedures for:

• Packaging
• Documentation
• Labeling
• Cold-chain management
• Time-sensitive shipping

Most shipments leave on time and arrive on time, so Colombian companies can effectively manage their inventory.

Strong CDMO Support

India is also a worldwide hub for Contract Development and Manufacturing Organizations (CDMOs), that support:

• New product development
• Trial batches
• Full-scale production
• Packaging and labeling
• Regulatory dossiers

This is helpful for Colombian companies to bring new products to market quickly and to help smaller companies develop their products in a cost-effective way as well.

The Advantages of Sourcing from India for Colombia

Sourcing from India provides:

• Lower costs for pharmaceuticals
• Ability to rely upon supply
• Quality products
• Range of products
• Strong CDMO capabilities
• Higher profit margins
• Faster time to market on new products

India is a reliable and cost-effective partner in pharmaceuticals globally. (Read: Explore top Indian CDMO manufacturers)

What Colombia Can Import From India

Finished Pharmaceutical Products

Colombia can import a wide variety of ready-to-use medicines such as:

• Tablets and capsules
• Syrups and oral drops
• Injectable products
• Eye and ear drops
• Creams and gels for dermatological use

These products can also service therapeutic areas of:

• Infections
• Pain management
• Diabetes
• Cardiovascular issues
• Hypertension
• Gastrointestinal conditions
• Respiratory conditions
• Cancer care

Indian manufacturers make these available in a variety of strengths, pack sizes, and formulations.

APIs (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients)

APIs are at the heart of pharmaceutical formulation, and India is one of the world leaders in APIs.

Colombia can procure APIs for:

• Pain management
• Diabetes
• Cardiology
• Hypertension
• Antibiotics
• Oncology
• Steroids

When Colombia imports APIs, they are further supporting their local manufacturing capabilities.

Herbal and Health Products

India is a major producer of traditional and natural health products, including:

• Herbal oils
• Herbal tablets and mixtures
• Immunity boosters
• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Nutritional supplements

These products perform well in Colombia due to strong local demand for natural wellness options.

Medical Devices

India exports many medical devices widely used in healthcare:

• Gloves
• Syringes
• IV sets
• Tubes
• Test kits
• Bandages
• Surgical instruments

These products help reduce expenses for clinics, hospitals, and laboratories in Colombia.

Step-by-Step Guide for Colombian Companies to Buy From India

Step 1: Prepare a Requirements List

Include details such as:

• Product name
• Dosage
• Pack size
• Packaging type
• Total quantity
• Any special requirements

A clear list helps suppliers provide accurate quotations.

Step 2: Identify Reliable Manufacturers

Look for companies with:

• WHO-GMP certification
• Strong export history
• Fast response times
• Clear documentation
• Competitive pricing

Choose manufacturers experienced in supplying to Latin America.

Step 3: Request Documentation

Request essential documents, such as:

• Certificate of Analysis (COA)
• GMP certificates
• Packaging details
• Stability data
• Regulatory dossiers
• Manufacturing licenses

These documents are necessary for INVIMA compliance in Colombia.

Step 4: Compare Pricing

Request quotations from at least three manufacturers.

Compare:

• Unit price
• Packaging cost
• Labeling cost
• Shipping cost
• Payment terms

Do not choose based solely on price — quality must come first.

Step 5: Evaluate Samples

Request samples and evaluate:

• Appearance
• Packaging
• Labeling
• Shelf life

If needed, send samples to a testing laboratory.

Step 6: Review INVIMA Requirements

Colombia’s import regulations may require:

• INVIMA dossier
• Spanish labeling
• Stability data
• Additional documentation

Most reputable Indian manufacturers can supply all required documents.

Step 7: Sign a Contract

Include details such as:

• Final price
• Total quantity
• Shipping schedule
• Payment terms
• Shipping mode
• Packaging requirements

A clear contract prevents future disputes.

India is a great sourcing opportunity for Colombian companies. Pills or different product forms, Indian pharmaceutical suppliers will provide the same level of quality and service while being comparably priced to technology in Colombia or North America.

Working with reputable and established manufacturers allows Colombian companies to lay the groundwork for long-lasting partnerships that will provide value for both countries and to positively impact the healthcare outcomes for Colombia.

References

-World Health Organization (WHO) –
-GMP Guidelines https://www.who.int/teams/health-product-policy-and-standards/standards-and-specifications/gmp
-USFDA – Inspections of Indian Pharmaceutical Facilities https://www.fda.gov/drugs/pharmaceutical-quality-resources/fda-inspections-overseas
-European Medicines Agency (EMA) – EU GMP Guide https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/human-regulatory/research-development/compliance/eu-good-manufacturing-practice
-UK MHRA – GMP & GDP Compliance https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/good-manufacturing-practice-and-good-distribution-practice