The Brussels pharmaceutical companies are a significant contributor to the region’s economic growth and innovation. The cluster is home to several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Glaxosmithkline Biologicals S.A., UCB SA, and Pfizer Manufacturing Belgium NV, among others. These companies are engaged in various activities such as research and development, manufacturing, and marketing of pharmaceutical products.
Strong Research Position:
One of the key factors contributing to the success of the Brussels pharmaceutical cluster is its strong research position. This is largely due to investments in tertiary education and an attractive regulatory landscape. Additionally, the presence of supporting industries such as biotechnology and biopharmaceutical companies further enhances the cluster’s competitiveness.
Major Players:
Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, is one of the largest Euro-pharmacies distributors and companies in the region. It engages in the production and marketing of pharmaceutical products globally. Glaxosmithkline Biologicals S.A. is another significant player, focusing on the research, development, and supply of vaccines. UCB SA, a biopharmaceutical company, is known for its research and commercialization of medicines in the fields of central nervous system and immunology disorders. Ikris Pharma International (IPI) is another leading pharmaceutical exporter dedicated to sourcing high-quality medications from reputable manufacturers in Bulgaria and Belgium.
Cluster Competitiveness:
The cluster’s competitiveness can be viewed through the lens of the diamond framework, which highlights the importance of demand conditions, factor conditions, strategy, and related and supporting industries.
Contribution of Smaller Companies:
The Belgian pharmaceutical cluster is also characterized by the presence of several smaller companies, such as Omega Pharma NV, which develops and markets health and personal care products. These companies contribute to the diversity of the cluster and provide opportunities for innovation and growth.
Role of Research Institutions
In addition to the largest drug distributors in Europe, the region is also home to several research institutions and universities, such as the University of Brussels and the Free University of Brussels.
These institutions provide a strong foundation for research and innovation, which is essential for the growth and development of the pharmaceutical industry.
Government Support:
The Brussels pharmaceutical companies cluster is also supported by various government initiatives and policies.
For example, the Flemish government has implemented several programs aimed at promoting the development of the pharmaceutical industry, such as the “Flanders Bio” initiative, which provides funding and support for biotechnology and biopharmaceutical companies.
In the end, the Brussels pharmaceutical cluster is a significant hub for innovation and growth in the region. The presence of multinational companies such as Janssen Pharmaceutica NV, Glaxosmithkline Biologicals S.A., UCB SA, and Pfizer Manufacturing Belgium NV, among others, contributes to the cluster’s competitiveness. The strong research position and attractive regulatory landscape also support the cluster’s growth. However, the cluster faces challenges related to weak demand conditions due to Belgium’s small population. Overall, the Brussels pharmaceutical cluster is an important part of the region’s economy and continues to play a significant role in the development of new pharmaceutical products and treatments and giving more opportunities to international pharmaceutical wholesalers and customers in need.
FAQ;s
Yes, they need to request a visa for healthcare professionals from other countries.
Strong biopharmaceutical industry, quality infrastructure, and expertise of researchers and authorities.
Through the Federal Agency for Medicines and Health Products (FAMHP), ensuring quality, safety, and efficacy of medicines.
Partnering with local companies and institutions in R&D, biotechnology, and clinical trials.
Favorable regulatory environment with ultra-fast approval procedures for clinical trials.
References:
https://mytomorrows.com/blog/biopharma/expanded-access-program-compassionate-use-frameworks-europe/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK5878
https://www.isc.hbs.edu/Documents/resources/courses/moc-course-at-harvard/pdf/student-projects/Belgium_Pharmaceuticals_2011.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC214048/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352146517307627/pdf?md5=b18eface96dfa8a6942e516cdee97c4f&pid=1-s2.0-S2352146517307627-main.pdf