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Abstract
This study aims to construct a conceptual model for the comprehensive analysis of the pharmaceutical industry in Uruguay, based on the premise that it is seen as an industry with significant development potential for the country. The methodological approach is qualitative, descriptive, comparative, and explanatory. The findings demonstrate the presence of several laboratories that satisfy both domestic demand and exports of pharmaceutical products, grouped into two associations. On the one hand, there is the National Laboratories Association (A.L.N.), which represents both national and binational laboratories. The other group is the Chamber of Pharmaceutical Specialties and Related Products (C.E.F.A.), given that the domestic market receives approximately 82% of the sector's total production as its primary destination. The main destination for Uruguayan exports in this sector is Latin America, particularly Mercosur countries such as Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. The macroeconomic analysis reveals that the region's competitive landscape encompasses several competitors offering alternative medications. While the industry seeks to define its growth based on innovative competitive advantages, optimizing its resources, and strengthening its production chain, the use of the government procurement system as a sector development tool is crucial in Uruguay. This leverages the high qualifications of its personnel, which are among the highest in the global industry. Furthermore, the Uruguayan pharmaceutical sector is working to improve its demand conditions by increasing exports, reducing non-tariff barriers, and boosting investment in drug research for disease prevention and treatment.