51ÁÔÆæ

Selecting the right ingredient suppliers is an important part of building a reliable and resilient pharmaceutical supply chain. In this Ask the Expert discussion, Jane Zhang, co-founder and co-CEO of ETCH Sourcing, joins Susan J. Schniepp of 51ÁÔÆæ to explore how companies can evaluate potential suppliers while balancing cost, quality, lead times, and broader business objectives.

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Zhang emphasizes that supplier selection should begin with clearly defined evaluation criteria before going to market. The priorities may vary depending on the product and business needs. While cost and quality remain important considerations, a supplier’s ability to meet delivery commitments, provide transparency, and maintain a dependable partnership can be equally critical. Geopolitical factors also play an increasingly important role in evaluating supplier reliability and potential supply chain disruptions.

The discussion reinforces the importance of taking a broader, strategic approach to supplier qualification and selection. Rather than focusing solely on immediate cost savings, pharmaceutical companies should consider how supplier capabilities, transparency, communication, and external risks could affect long-term manufacturing operations and product availability. Establishing clear expectations and evaluating suppliers against defined business and quality priorities can help organizations make more informed sourcing decisions and strengthen supply chain resilience.

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