13.04.2007 - Life sciences and biotechnology – a key sector for Europe's competitiveness and sustainability

The European Commission has today reviewed its strategy on Life Sciences and Biotechnology. This sector has the potential to make a significant contribution to the sustainability and competitiveness of European industry and the quality of life of Europe's inhabitants.

According to a Eurobarometer survey in 2006, one in two Europeans believe that biotechnology will improve their quality of life. The survey showed widespread support for medical and industrial applications of biotechnology, though there was a more negative position on GM foods (58% against, 42% in favour). The same survey showed that the EU is more trusted than national governments on issues of regulating biotechnology.

This background note gives some key facts and figures about the sector, outlines the revisions proposed to the strategy and highlights some of the on-going and planned support to research in this area.

The European dedicated biotechnology industry directly employs 96500 people, mostly in SMEs. Employment in industries that use biotechnology products is many times higher. The industry is highly research intensive, with 44% of its employees involved in R&D activities. In 2004, the 2163 dedicated biotechnology companies spent €7.6 billion on R&D.

The 7th Framework Programme started in 2007. Within its Cooperation Programme, €8 billion are specifically dedicated to Life Sciences and Biotechnologies. Some €6 billion will support health research with another €2 billion supporting research on food, agriculture and fisheries, and biotechnology. SMEs are expected to account for 15% of these budgets, meaning funding of 1.2 billion euros.

Source: Rapid

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