Pooling resources for better health: Exploring pooled procurement for health technologies globally and potential application in Asia

This study examines how pooled procurement is emerging as a powerful mechanism to improve access to essential medicines, vaccines, and health technologies. By consolidating demand and resources, countries can strengthen their bargaining power with suppliers, often achieving significant price reductions and timely delivery of critical products. Beyond lowering costs, pooled procurement enhances efficiency and sustainability by reducing administrative burdens, improving transparency and accountability, and strengthening supply security and quality control. The approach also serves as a catalyst for public health, directly contributing to better outcomes and accelerating progress toward universal health coverage. Regional initiatives such as the PAHO Revolving Fund and the GCC Group Purchasing Program, alongside global mechanisms including UNFPA, UNICEF, Gavi, and the Global Drug Facility, demonstrate its potential. In Asia, pooled procurement is gaining traction, with ASEAN exploring opportunities to apply this model.