WA Spotlight on Global Biopharma: Innovation, Competition and Geopolitics

As geopolitics, trade policies and industrial strategies increasingly influence the life sciences sector, understanding their impact on global biopharmaceutical innovation has never been more important.

August’s WA Sector Spotlight event, delivered in collaboration with the U.S. Consulate Perth, will feature global policy and innovation expert Stephen Ezell, Vice President for Global Innovation Policy at the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF) and Director of ITIF’s Center for Life Sciences Innovation in Washington.

Drawing on his extensive expertise in innovation policy, international competitiveness, trade and manufacturing, Stephen will explore how the current geopolitical environment is reshaping the global biopharmaceutical sector. His presentation will examine the impact of changing policies such as tariffs and industrial incentives, the growing emphasis on supporting local innovation and advanced manufacturing, and the rapid emergence of China as a leading global force in biotechnology innovation.

The presentation will be followed by a fireside chat with Dr Tracey Wilkinson, Director Stakeholder Engagement at the WA Life Sciences Innovation Hub. Together, they will discuss what these global trends mean for Australia and Western Australia, the opportunities and challenges facing local innovators, and how the WA sector can position itself in an increasingly competitive international environment.

The WA Spotlight Series is an event series hosted by the WA Life Sciences Innovation Hub, bringing together representatives from across WA’s biomedical innovation sector. Each event offers an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and hear the stories and successes of local biomedical organisations and leaders. Formalities will be followed by networking over light refreshments.