Regulatory harmonization is needed to accelerate the global availability of PDP-developed products.

Inconsistent, complex, and sometimes slow processes for earning approval and registration of new products in all countries are a significant challenge to ensure they are widely and equitably available. Relieving these barriers can also serve as a financial incentive for donors and product developers, resulting in a quicker and larger health impact and return on investment. National and regional efforts to streamline and harmonize regulatory processes can accelerate the availability of lifesaving new health technologies, especially where most urgently needed. As an example, IAVI ‘s collaboration with the East African Health Research Commission (EAHRC) to develop a policy guide to standardize the research ethics review process in six African countries helped ensure trial safety and reduced approval times by 30% for IAVI-sponsored protocols in Kenya, Uganda, and Zambia.