Kalbe Farma Produces Indonesia's First Local Dialyzer

PT Kalbe Farma Tbk (Kalbe), through its subsidiary PT Forsta Kalmedic Global (Forsta), has achieved a significant milestone by producing Indonesia's first locally manufactured dialyzer. This initiative underscores Kalbe's commitment to enhancing national health resilience and fostering self-reliance in the domestic medical device industry.

Understanding Dialyzers and Their Importance

A dialyzer is a vital component in hemodialysis procedures, commonly known as blood dialysis, which is essential for patients with chronic kidney failure. These devices function as artificial kidneys, filtering waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are no longer able to perform these functions effectively.

Addressing the Growing Need for Dialyzers in Indonesia

Indonesia faces a significant health challenge, with approximately 1.5 million individuals suffering from chronic kidney disease, and 159,000 of them requiring regular hemodialysis treatments. Historically, the majority of dialyzer supplies have been imported, making the sector vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions.

Kalbe's Strategic Move Towards Local Production

In response to this critical need, Kalbe, through Forsta, has established a local dialyzer production facility. This facility is the first of its kind in Indonesia and the second in Southeast Asia. The locally produced dialyzers, branded as RenaCare, have obtained international certifications, including CPAKB, ISO, and halal certification, ensuring they meet high-quality standards.

Economic and Health Benefits of Local Production

The local production of dialyzers offers several strategic advantages:

• Economic Impact: Reducing dependence on imports lowers costs associated with import duties and international shipping, making hemodialysis treatments more affordable for patients.
• Health Sector Efficiency: Ensuring a stable and affordable supply of dialyzers enhances the efficiency of healthcare services and maintains continuity of care, even during global crises.
• National Self-Reliance: Strengthening the domestic medical device industry contributes to national self-reliance, reducing vulnerability to global supply chain disruptions.

Government Support and Future Outlook

This initiative has received strong support from the Indonesian government, including through PMK No. 3 of 2023, which encourages the use of domestic products. The Ministry of Health, Ministry of Industry, and BPJS Kesehatan have all welcomed this development. Additionally, Forsta has engaged in technology transfer with partners from Italy, further enhancing the quality and competitiveness of the locally produced dialyzers.

Looking ahead, the demand for dialyzers in Indonesia is projected to increase from 1 million to 5-6 million units per year. This strategic move positions Indonesia to meet this growing demand, contributing to the nation's healthcare resilience and economic growth.