Swiss Biotech Report 2006

SWITZERLAND IS ...03… a successful biotech locationDear ReaderSwitzerland is a prime location for biotech companies.The 2006 edition of the Swiss Biotech Report providesa good overview of the opportunities availableand serves as an information gateway to the Swissbiotech community.Having identified biotechnology as a key factor in futuredevelopment, the Swiss government has undertakenvarious efforts to create an attractive businessenvironment for this sector. Biotechnology enjoys afavourable regulatory and administrative environmentin Switzerland: Product registration cycles are shortand innovative drugs, biotech products and servicesenjoy easy access to the markets. On the administrativeside, the Federal Coordination Centre for Biotechnology(www.contactbiotech.ch) acts as a onestopprocessing centre for notification of activitiesand applications for authorisation.What makes this country such a successful biotechlocation? In a technology-friendly environment, Switzerlandboasts a qualified and highly motivated workforce.Stable political and social conditions, a flexiblejob market as well as an effective infrastructure andattractive tax framework – all of these make Switzerlanda rewarding choice for any innovative company.The country also offers an efficient technology transferbetween higher education institutions and industry,thus enabling innovation, high quality and sustainablegrowth.The proximity to the country’s prestigious pharmaceuticaland chemical industries and internationalknowledge clusters make Switzerland an ideal placeto set up your biotech business.The unique combination of advantages describedhere together with innovative and vibrant researchand business communities make Switzerland a truebiotech gem in the heart of Europe.Joseph Deiss, Minister of Economic Affairs