Audits of Indian drug manufacturing facilities by the Food and Drug Administration are set to rise sharply after October’s Mutual Recognition Agreement between the US regulator and eight European Union member states. This will allow USFDA to better identify drug quality problems earlier and prevent poor quality drugs from entering the US market. Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance secretary general DG Shah agreed that inspections could be stepped up but termed it a long-term benefit. USFDA said Thomas Arista will assume the role of deputy director of India office, pending clearances.