Plasma donation in Belgium faces a significant challenge as only 46 percent of the plasma used in the country comes from local donors. On 2025-06-11 10:30:00, health authorities highlighted the reliance on imported plasma, mainly from countries like the united states, where donors receive payment for their contributions.
- 46% of plasma used is locally sourced
- Belgium imports plasma mainly from the USA
- International shortages threaten future plasma supply
- Red Cross urges increased plasma donations
- Target of 25,000 new donors by 2029
- 25,000 Belgians rely on plasma medication
However, these international suppliers are also struggling with shortages, putting Belgium’s plasma supply at risk. This uncertainty has prompted the Belgian Red Cross and Minister of Health Frank Vandenbroucke to call on citizens to increase plasma donations, aiming to recruit 25,000 new donors by 2029.
Given that around 25,000 Belgians depend on plasma-based medication annually, could Belgium become more self-sufficient? What impact would a stronger local donation network have on patient care? These questions underline the urgency of the appeal.
Why does Belgium rely so heavily on imported plasma, and what can be done to change this? The growing demand for plasma medication and the instability of international supply chains highlight the need for local action. Key points include:
- Less than half of plasma used in Belgium is locally sourced.
- International suppliers, including paid donors in the US, face shortages themselves.
- The Red Cross and government aim to add 25,000 plasma donors by 2029.
- Plasma medication is essential for about 25,000 Belgian patients each year.
Increasing plasma donation in Belgium is crucial for future healthcare security. Citizens are encouraged to contribute and help build a more reliable, homegrown plasma supply, ensuring life-saving treatments remain available for all who need them.
