Before jumping to the level of exports --- let's go back couple of paces. It is almost unbelievable that Russia has not placed more emphasis on domestic production. All richest countries in the world subsidize quite heavily the research, development and market protection for domestic drug producers. For one, one has to keep in mind the costs to the public. Since the cost of the medication is passed down to the taxpayer, it is essential that the damage of counterproductive importing is reversed.

There are some key strtegic industries for Russia, health is one of them and Pharmaceuticals is an essential part of that. We absolutely need save and deveop this industry, both as a stategic domestic asset and then in the future as an export potential. However, we need go step by step, and step one is saving. However, we will save nothing by throwing good money after bad, that means we must make sure that we really analyse the market (domestic first) and put in place a cutting edge industry to deliver the modern drugs we need in an efficient way. This actually may mean importing machinery and process in the short term, but that is all part of the analysis and action plan that needs to be drawn up. Basically we need this industry, and it will cost us money to set it up properly. This money has to come partlly from the state. The heatcare debate and taxation is a huge one. There is an over use of drugs, and there is no real requirement and need, that the sate should be the captive buyer for all drug output. A model that drives ever increasing taxation to cover the expense of it. But in my mind there is a need for universal emergency treatment for all, plus universal healthcare for children, provided by the state. So the state will inevitably have to be a smart buyer in these areas. for the rest there is a huge debate possible, part of which is happening in the US right now and is outside the scope of this comment. But hey RT, why don't you put something up on healtcare in Russia for the future. I want to debate it in a Russian context!