Benchmark Study 1

Bio and gene technology
IPP BENCHMARK REPORT
V. 1.0
In recent years, bio and gene technology have developed apace in Saxony-Anhalt. The state has
gained recognition throughout the world for its proficiency in the field of plant biotechnology, which has
evolved from its considerable expertise in the chemical and agricultural sectors.
The industry has been further bolstered since 2003 by the joint endeavors of business and the State
Government in the BioMitteldeutschland initiative. The InnoPlanta network shows the way forward for
innovative plant biotechnology. 22
Chemical industry
The chemical industry is of considerable structural importance for the economy of Saxony-Anhalt. In
terms of aggregate sales volume, it is the second-largest industry in the manufacturing sector. A
significant amount has so far been invested in approximately 350 projects in the ‘chemical triangle’. The
State Government has backed the privatisation and restructuring processes of recent years with
considerable funds of its own, as well as with Federation and EU grants.
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European Chemical Regions Network (ECRN):
The ECRN has direct partners in twenty-two chemical regions of Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland,
Estonia, Great Britain, the Netherlands, France and the Czech Republic. Its aim is to highlight
regional factors when developing framework requirements for the European chemical industry. 23
Central European Chemical Network:
A chemical industry and plastics processing network for the central German chemical triangle,
whose aim is to create synergy effects for the sustainable development of central German chemical
facilities.
Association for the promotion of Polymer Development and Plastics Technology in Central
Germany:
It is a central German network, whose objective is to improve cooperation between science and
industry and between individual companies along the value chain of polymer development and
plastics technology. 24
Service economy
Accounting as it does for around 70 percent of the state’s gross domestic product as well as of its jobs
market, the service sector is widely regarded today as a crucial generator of growth and employment.
The company and personal service sectors are experiencing a particularly buoyant period of expansion.
Saxony-Anhalt is a highly prized location for call centers. The media industry is also in the ascendancy.
The Central German Multimedia Centre (MMZ) deserves particular recognition as part of this positive
22 http://www.sachsen-anhalt.de/LPSA/index.php?id=22603 downloaded on 11 November
23 http://www.ecrn.net/abouttheecrn/welcomeandoverview.php downloaded on 29. December
24 http://www.sachsen-anhalt.de/LPSA/index.php?id=22604 downloaded on 11 November
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