WHO Calls for Proposals to Host the 20th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities

On 20 October 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a formal Call for Proposals inviting Member States to host the 20th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA), WHO's flagship global regulatory forum. The 20th edition is expected to be held towards the end of 2027 and will be jointly organized by WHO and the selected host country, primarily as an in-person event. Member States considering a bid are strongly encouraged to communicate an initial Expression of Interest by 20 November 2026, indicating the proposed lead institution - preferably the national regulatory authority - together with preliminary information on the proposed location and organizational arrangements.

Since its inception in 1980, ICDRA has provided a unique platform for heads of national regulatory authorities for medical products (NRAs), senior regulators, policymakers, international organizations and key stakeholders to exchange knowledge and experience, strengthen international regulatory cooperation, and advance regulatory convergence and reliance. The conference has played a pivotal role in identifying emerging regulatory challenges and informing the development of WHO norms, standards and guidance. The 20th ICDRA will mark more than four decades of international cooperation, and discussions are expected to address regulatory systems strengthening, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs); convergence and reliance; digital transformation, including artificial intelligence; innovative health technologies; and preparedness for public health emergencies. The selected host country will provide organizational, logistical, technical and financial support, while WHO will lead the overall theme, the technical and scientific programme, and participant registration.

For manufacturers, importers and procurement partners, ICDRA's agenda is an early signal of how product registrations will be handled in target markets over the coming years. Sustained progress on convergence and reliance allows national authorities to draw on evaluations by reference regulators, shortening approval timelines and reducing duplicative testing. The emphasis on digital transformation points towards electronic submissions, digital product information and serialized data requirements becoming standard. Suppliers who maintain complete, audit-ready registration dossiers, hold WHO prequalification or approvals from stringent regulatory authorities, and can support multi-market documentation will be best positioned as these practices spread through LMIC regulatory systems.

Artemisine Medicines Technology follows WHO regulatory developments closely, keeping its registration dossiers and quality documentation aligned with the requirements of national authorities across Africa and Central Asia.

Source: WHO, Call for Proposals for hosting the 20th International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA), https://www.who.int/news/item/20-10-2026-call-for-proposals-for-hosting-the-20th-international-conference-of-drug-regulatory-authorities-(icdra)