New Study Highlights Enabling Factors for Biopharmaceutical Innovation in Middle-Income Countries

GENEVA, October 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

• Commissioned by IFPMA, the study identifies tailored, consistent long-term government policies as key factors to foster biopharmaceutical innovation

An independent study on biopharmaceutical innovation in middle-income countries was released today at the 26^th IFPMA Assembly in Geneva. The report analyzed key national political and economic factors that foster biopharmaceutical innovation.

The study, Policies That Encourage Innovation in Middle-Income Countries, was conducted by Charles River Associates (CRA), an independent global consulting firm, and examined growing biopharmaceutical innovation sectors in Brazil, China, Colombia, India, Malaysia, Russia, South Africa and South Korea.

"In recent years, the number of countries where biopharmaceutical innovation takes place has increased, and this trend is expected to continue," said Eduardo Pisani, IFPMA Director General. "Middle-income countries are becoming increasingly important for innovative activities ranging from early-stage research to clinical development. We commissioned this report because it is crucial for governments and industry to have a clearer understanding of what stimulates and drives innovation in these countries."

The report highlighted the primary success factor as consistent long-term policy and legal frameworks. These should be coupled with effective coordination of national industrial and health policies, encouragement of collaborations between stakeholders, and adequate intellectual property protection. The report further suggests that some countries specialize in those stages of the innovation process in which they have a competitive advantage.

According to Tim Wilsdon, CRA Vice President, "Learning from the recent experience of a diverse set of middle-income countries, our report documents how targeted, co-ordinated and consistent government policies, tailored to a country's capabilities, are key components for success. Other enabling factors include strong research institutions and medical schools and an environment that encourages partnership between the different stakeholders."

Further information about CRA's findings can be found at CRA Full Report and CRA Key Findings.

About the IFPMA:

IFPMA represents the research-based pharmaceutical companies and associations across the globe. The research-based pharmaceutical industry's 1.3 million employees research, develop and provide medicines and vaccines that improve the life of patients worldwide. Based in Geneva, IFPMA has official relations with the United Nations and contributes industry expertise to help the global health community find solutions that improve global health.