Panel Discussion: Advanced therapy logistics: The new frontier

The concluding panel discussion at the Pharma Medical Devices Supply Chain Conclave 2025 discussed the new frontiers of advanced therapy logistics. Moderating this discussion was Ashish Sabnis, VPStrategic Buying & Compliance, USV. And panellists included Stanley Fernandes, Asst VP, Bharat Serums & Vaccines; Arijeet Banerjee, Associate Director Supply Chain Management, Ferring Pharmaceuticals; Ashu Gupta, VP-Supply Chain Management, Koye Pharmaceuticals; and Manoj Nolkha, India Deliver Lead, J&J. 

The conversation began by discussing cold chain management, a crucial aspect of advanced therapy logistics. Panellists agreed that maintaining a robust cold chain is critical in pharma and medtech logistics, especially for temperature-sensitive and advanced therapies. Real-time tracking, validated lane qualifications, and rigorous stakeholder training form the backbone of a reliable cold chain, helping ensure compliance and product integrity throughout transit. 

Logistics for advanced therapies often involves complex, time-sensitive, cross-border routes that require precise coordination and adherence to rapidly evolving regulatory requirements. Deliveries must be meticulously planned to avoid delays or temperature excursions.

There’s a growing adoption of next-gen packaging solutions. Phase Change Material (PCM) bottles and foam bricks can maintain ultra-low temperatures—down to -21°C—for up to 96 hours. Collapsible liners and thermal blankets are also gaining popularity due to their flexibility and space-saving benefits. 

Panellists also highlighted that security innovations like digital locks and tamper-evident bottle seal packs are enhancing supply chain integrity. These systems often use OTP verification to unlock vehicle doors, providing added traceability, quality control and control over who accesses the shipment. 

With regulatory scrutiny intensifying, end-to-end temperature monitoring has become standard. Tools like data loggers and real-time sensors help detect any temperature excursions immediately, enabling rapid response. Comprehensive quality checks at every stage are essential, as any breach in cold chain conditions can compromise product efficacy and patient safety.

As cold chain logistics become more complex and critical to therapeutic success, especially with the rise of biologics and cell and gene therapies, the industry must continue to invest in innovation, training, and collaboration. Building a cold chain that is not only compliant but also intelligent and resilient is essential to safeguarding product integrity, meeting regulatory expectations, and ultimately ensuring that life-saving treatments reach patients safely and on time.