Structure Model of Foresightful Export Oriented Strategies for Iran Pharmaceutical Industry: Using a Fuzzy DEMATEL Method

Export orientation is one of the main approaches in developing Iran's pharmaceutical industry as a key health-related part of industries. It is necessary to identify, formulate and implement some foresightful strategies and strategic plans toward adopting the export approach in the Iran pharmaceutical industry.

This paper aims to identify, prioritize and develop a structure model of foresightful export-oriented strategies and strategic plans for Iran's pharmaceutical industry.

Data gathering for identifying strategies conducted through literature review and some interviews with pharmaceutical industry experts analyzed through qualitative content analysis. Then fuzzy DEMATEL technique is used to prioritize and develop cause and effect and structure the model of identified strategies.

Policy modification, privatization, smart self-sufficiency in production, knowledge management in both national policy and industry firm's levels, and quality improvement in all aspects of production and products were identified as foresightful export-oriented strategies and plans for Iran pharmaceutical industry.

Privatization is the most effective and important foresightful export-oriented strategy in Iran's pharmaceutical industry.