Biotechnology in NRW
North Rhine-Westphalia boasts a first-class scientific research base, numerous internationally successful SMEs and a globally active chemical and pharmaceutical industry. In NRW the focus is on diagnostics and analytics, pharmaceutical and industrial biotechnology, nanotechnology, enabling technologies, and services. The innovations originating in the biotech sector find their way into wide-ranging applications – e.g. in healthcare/medicine, the chemical industry, food production and environmental protection.
Leading center for innovation in Europe
NRW takes an international top position especially regarding the field of medical-pharmaceutical biotechnology, also known as Red Biotechnology. With NRW and Bavaria at the top, Germany leads the ranking of European bio-pharmaceutical locations in 2018 for the fifth time in a row. The top spot is based mainly on the high number of 627 patent applications and 174,000 employes.
NRW is home to numerous global heavyweights that are active in biotechnology and other sectors. In addition, numerous dynamic specialist biotech enterprises are located NRW:
BIO.NRW centrally catalyses the sustainable development of the strengths of North Rhine-Westphalia's biotechnology and bioeconomy. The central aspects of BIO.NRW are: an effective network for entrepreneurs and scientists, a central event platform for life science topics, promotion of young talent, support for start-ups and SMEs.
Do you have questions about entry regulations, tax issues and relevant laws for your investment project? You can find all the important information on setting up a company and other practical answers in our Business Guide.
25 years of Yakult in NRW: "We feel we have roots here".
18.11.2021
An interview with Tatsuya Hirano, Managing Director of Yakult Deutschland GmbH, about the beginnings of the Japanese milk drink on the German market, the role of the main site in Neuss, and the company's plans for the future.
In 4 easy steps to North Rhine-Westphalia | NRW
The healthcare industry in NRW is regarded as an engine of growth and innovation. Particularly in the field of medical technology, companies from NRW occupy a leading international position. In addition, the health industry in the state is characterized by a broad-based pharmaceutical industry with numerous global players.
A strong research landscape and the close connectivity of industry and science in NRW contribute to high innovation speed. Companies from Germany and abroad benefit from the market dynamics of these key technologies.
