Welcome!

The United Nations estimates that one out of every ten people is now over 60 years old.   By 2050, one out of every five persons will be 60 years or older. This expanding base of ageing population will fuel the demand for better quality healthcare systems and solutions, presenting a window of opportunity for medical technology companies to venture into new frontiers and new geographies.

The UK’s healthcare industry is one of its strongest sectors. Its National Health Service (NHS) is recognised the world over as a benchmark of clinical excellence. There are nine regional NHS Innovation Centres which champion the cause of healthcare innovation. They develop and commercialise innovations and Intellectual Property created by NHS staff for improved patient service. As a key influencer of European healthcare regulation, products approved in the UK have access to the whole European market.

The UK continues to attract and retain healthcare innovators, with its world class scientific institutions, impressive research base and track record in product development. Just last year, Sewon Cellontech set up an office and R&D facility in Cambridge for its regenerative medical system division. The Korean firm, which provides cell treatments, haematopoietic stem cells, medicines and cosmetics, was attracted by the strength of the UK’s research base, the quality of its academic institutions and the presence of like-minded companies in the Cambridge area.

The UK Government’s newly formed Office for Life Sciences, established in April this year, will be the driving force in healthcare innovation. Its focus will be to take swift action to improve the operating environment for the pharmaceutical, medical biotech and medical devices sectors. Its work will contribute to UK Government initiatives to establish a “new industrial activism”, to improve the UK’s business environment for leading industries.

Healthcare missions between the UK and Singapore are organised regularly- a testament to the common commitment that both governments share in increasing investments into this sector. The next healthcare mission will be taking place in September, with a reception organised for the visiting UK delegates and invited Singapore companies. This reception will be a useful opportunity for networking with a cross- section of companies in the healthcare industry. If you are involved in supplying to the healthcare sector, please register your interest in attending this event at commercial.singapore@fco.gov.uk.

Best Wishes,
Amanda Brooks

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