In April 2024, NRW.Global Business and BIO.NRW hosted the first "NRW-Singapore Biotech Business Forum 2024" jointly with the Singaporean-German Chamber of Industry and Commerce and other partners. The event in Singapore brought together stakeholders from science, industry and government. The aim was to highlight the strengths and opportunities within the biotech ecosystems of NRW and Singapore as well as business potential in the respective regions. Leading biotech companies presented innovative work from NRW and highlighted opportunities for collaboration.
The organizers emphasized the economic importance of biotechnology in both states: NRW is currently home to 230 companies in the sector with a total of 24,400 employees; its first-class research and science landscape is a constant driver of innovation and development. NRW is also a leader in medical and pharmaceutical biotechnology. Singapore's biotech and medtech ecosystem is also outstanding: The city-state is home to more than 60 production facilities that generate around four percent of its gross domestic product (GDP). With about 30 biotech research and development centers and some 500 local biomedical companies, the country is characterized by diversity and dynamism.
Following the positive response, more events are planned.