BIO Asia-Taiwan is preparing for its largest event since its inception. The upcoming conference, set for late July, will focus on innovation, regional collaboration, and the effects of tariffs on the biotech industry.
The conference previewed key topics, with tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump being a major point of discussion. These tariffs are expected to raise the cost of exports to the US for drug manufacturers. They may also affect raw materials and drug licensing.
Liu Lee-cheng, chair of the Taiwan Bio Industry Organization, sees these tariffs as an opportunity. He believes they could help Taiwan’s firms negotiate with the US. However, Liu also acknowledged that uncertainty now dominates the biotech industry. Many companies are hesitant to invest, holding onto cash reserves.
Leading pharmaceutical companies such as Roche and AstraZeneca will be impacted by the tariffs. They may raise prices as a result. On the other hand, Taiwan’s role in biotech production could be less affected. Taiwan produces many drugs using raw materials from China, which are unlikely to increase in price.
Johnsee Lee, chair of the BIO Asia-Taiwan Organizing Committee, agreed that foreign firms would bear the brunt of these tariffs. He cited the drop in AstraZeneca’s stock value by over 5% when tariffs were imposed. India, the world’s largest drug producer, will also feel the impact.
Despite these challenges, Taiwan’s small biotech industry is expected to fare better. Taiwan specializes in high-end materials, contract manufacturing, and clinical testing. As a result, Taiwanese firms should see limited effects from the tariff increase.
BIO Asia-Taiwan organizers began planning this event months before Trump’s inauguration. They could not have foreseen how global trade and the pharmaceutical industry would shift. The conference, however, has continued to attract a diverse range of participants.
David Silver, consultant for the Taiwan Bio Industry Organization, emphasized the importance of international collaboration. With high laboratory standards and few threats to intellectual property, Taiwan is a strong partner in global biotech projects.
This year’s BIO Asia-Taiwan is set to be the largest yet. Organizers expect 100 speakers and 900 companies showcasing their work. The event will feature a wide range of topics, from drug development to health technology, fostering collaboration across industries.
The event’s growth reflects Taiwan’s increasing role in biotech. As Liu stated, “For 30 years, we have discussed innovative drugs, but we need to address bottlenecks.” BIO Asia-Taiwan serves as a platform for finding solutions and fostering breakthroughs in the industry.
BIO Asia-Taiwan remains a vital space for the global biotech community to come together. The event continues to inspire change and innovation in the rapidly evolving field of biotechnology.
