TRADE MISSION NOTES:

Life Sciences Sector Rich with Opportunities

Chris Rivera, President, Washington Biotechnology & Biomedical Association

09/21/10

I’m delighted to report a very successful trip for the delegation representing the life sciences sector in Washington. Last week has been almost non-stop, including visits to two Chinese life sciences innovation centers and dozens of productive meetings with potential partners and investors, and we were featured at Washington Day at the amazing World Expo 2010 Shanghai China.

In addition to our organization - the Washington Biotechnology & Biomedical Association - Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and Phillips Healthcare were also on the agenda during Washington Day at the Shanghai Expo. Among the other local leaders accompanying the Governor on the mission is Stephen Hanson, Vice Provost of Global Affairs at the University of Washington and my colleague on the newly-launched Washington Global Health Technologies Competitiveness Board.

Washington’s life sciences sector is one of our state’s top five industries with presence in 72 different cities statewide. China is a natural partner for us. They have the fastest growing health care system in the world, and are seeking opportunities to invest and partner with the U.S. to address their country’s growing need for better health care solutions.

A key highlight of our trip was signing of an MOU with the Beijing Pharmaceutical Association to increase International exchange and cooperation of life science and biotechnology between the U.S. and China. The MOU, which focuses on investment, partnering and research collaboration will help to accelerate the emerging relationships between Washington and China's biotech and biomedical industry. Life sciences in Washington is already one of the state's fastest growing job sectors. There is tremendous opportunity for our companies and research organizations to make inroads into the world’s fastest growing health care markets, which is also investing billions of dollars into biotech and biomedical research, development and commercialization.

We all look forward to returning home and hosting future meetings with this group, committed Chinese investors and other potential partners to continue growing Washington’s prestigious life sciences industry.