Sri Lanka has commenced local production of FDG (Fluoro Deoxy Glucose), a radiopharmaceutical primarily used in the early detection and diagnosis of cancer through PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans.
The Cyclotron-Based Radiopharmaceutical Manufacturing Facility, built by Access Engineering PLC and Access Medical Tracers (Pvt) Ltd, was declared open this morning (16) under the patronage of Science and Technology Minister Prof. Chrishantha Abeysena.
The facility, located within the Board of Investment zone in Katunayake, was constructed at a total investment of USD 6.875 million. The project operates as a public-private partnership, with Access Medical Tracers holding 60% ownership, Access International 20%, while the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Authority and the Health Ministry hold 10% each.
This marks the first time FDG has been manufactured in a facility built within Sri Lanka.
FDG is widely used in PET scan procedures for early cancer detection. Until now, Sri Lanka imported the drug from India. Officials noted that due to the short half-life of the radiopharmaceutical, nearly 97% of its active potency could diminish by the time it was used locally, potentially affecting scan accuracy.
Minister Abeysena said cancer cases are projected to increase by 23% annually by 2030, stressing the need for preparedness to address the growing health burden.
Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe welcomed the initiative, noting that supply disruptions in the past had created challenges. He added that local production would ensure uninterrupted supply, reduce foreign exchange outflow, and enable timely PET scan procedures.
Officials stated that the new facility would improve diagnostic accuracy and speed up cancer detection, while strengthening Sri Lanka’s capacity in advanced medical technology.
The project is being implemented jointly by Access Medical Tracers, the Sri Lanka Atomic Energy Authority, and the Health Ministry.