And beyond the technological developments, the economic implications of hi-tech API production are considerable. The UK’s pharmaceuticals industry contributes billions to the country’s economy, and last year exported more than ever before.
Importantly, these companies are high-value employers and, what’s more, the technologies they develop spur business activity across many other sectors, such as advancements in APIs that demand growth in healthcare and biotechnology, not to mention logistics. One need only to consider the economic impact of the Fujifilm vaccine production facility in Germany, opened in March 2021, to see the significant ripple effect it will have in that region by employing local talent, investing in local infrastructure, and attracting more growth.
This is also a field that does not provide immediate economic payoff. Economic rewards are conditional on reinvestment in continued innovation, and a failure to maintain the UK’s position as a pioneer in the field would be deeply problematic, economically speaking. It therefore requires support through policies and funding.
Furthermore, as API manufacturing becoming high technology, its successful establishment in the UK has improved the global competitiveness of the country’s pharmaceutical industry. UK has a strong research and development base that has long been one of its competitive advantages, and the success of these cutting-edge API manufacturing facilities has augmented this reputation, attracting inward investment from overseas, while allowing collaboration between universities and industry that has fostered a culture of innovation, which is vital for long-term sustainability.
Furthermore, the green credentials of hi-tech ‘Big Pharma’-style API production are an issue. Many companies have introduced en vogue ‘green’ policies – in response to public concerns about climate change – and the search for efficient, renewable and sustainable production methods is not only good for the planet, but will also help to market products to the eco-conscious consumer. By doing so, the UK could contribute to shaping a sustainable, attractive form of pharmaceutical manufacturing that is not only economically rewarding, but premised on environmental responsibility. For more information you can click here https://highforceresearch.com/.
