Strategische autonomie begint bij een sterke thuismarkt
This article is based on a Dutch-language column written by Forbion's Head of Public Affairs, Marc van Voorst tot Voorst for The Financial Investigator. In the article, Marc reflects on Europe’s growing focus on strategic autonomy in biotech. He explains that in an era of de-globalisation, the EU aims to reduce dependence on major powers and strengthen its competitiveness. The newly introduced EU Biotech Act seeks to harmonise fragmented regulations, improve financing for costly biotech development, promote safe use of genetic technologies, and address shortages of skilled talent.
Marc also notes that these measures are not sufficient on their own. Because biotech innovation is lengthy and expensive, companies tend to recover their investments in the United States, where pricing is higher and the market more favourable, effectively making American consumers the primary financiers of global biotech innovation. For Europe to achieve genuine strategic autonomy, he concludes, it must develop a stronger home market that supports innovation, and provides the economic foundation for a competitive biotech sector. This requires political commitment, long-term vision, and significantly more capital, particularly in the Netherlands.
