Global pharma market growth for 2009 lowered to 2.5%-3.5% by IMS Health

The value of the global pharmaceutical market is expected to grow by 2.5%-3.5% on a constant-dollar basis in 2009, two percentage points  lower than last indicated (Marketletter November 10, 2008), as the  deteriorating global economic environment continues to affect market  demand, according to the latest report by IMS Health.

The updated forecast predicts global pharmaceutical sales exceeding  $750.0 billion for the year, down from the $820.0+ billion previously  projected, reflecting both the lower growth rate and currency exchange  fluctuations. The sector will feel the impact of the economic climate -  but to a lesser extent than many other industries - through 2010, when a  rebound is expected. The conclusions are drawn from the latest release  of IMS Market Prognosis, a series of strategic market forecasting  publications that incorporate updated macroeconomic indicators  provided by the Economist Intelligence Unit.

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