Brazilian company Grupo Elfa and the National Unified Procurement Company of Saudi Arabia (NUPCO) have signed a two-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing Saudi’s healthcare ecosystem.
Majority-owned by Patria Investments-managed funds, Grupo Elfa signed the framework at the Global Health Exhibition in Riyadh.
The agreement seeks to advance the healthcare ecosystem with the introduction of AI technologies, development of supply‑chain models and facilitating knowledge exchange.
It aims to improve cost‑effectiveness, increase product availability and reduce lead times across Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector.
The MoU centres on collaborative opportunities in healthcare procurement, digital systems and logistics, initially focusing on the direct medical disposables sourcing.
As the national procurement hub, NUPCO provides access to a wide network of warehousing facilities, hospitals and pharmacies across Saudi Arabia.
The partnership links NUPCO to Grupo Elfa's global supplier network, diversifying sourcing channels and enhancing supply‑chain resilience.
NUPCO chief operating officer Fahad AlButhi said: “This strategic cooperation with Grupo Elfa underscores our commitment to strengthening the national healthcare supply chain, aligning with Vision 2030's national objectives.
“By integrating Grupo Elfa's advanced capabilities and global network, we aim to further optimise our procurement processes, enhance logistics, and strengthen access to healthcare services for all citizens and residents of Saudi Arabia.”
In collaboration with the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Patria seeks to boost investment flows between the GCC [Gulf Cooperation Council] and Latin America and support the objectives of Vision 2030, facilitating sustainable development and economic integration.
The partnership aligns with Saudi Arabia's Health Sector Transformation Programme, an essential element of Vision 2030 aimed at establishing an integrated and comprehensive healthcare ecosystem.
It also supports innovation in healthcare logistics and procurement to enhance the quality of care, patient outcomes, and ensure the strategic availability of medical products.
