The convergence of agriculture and biomedicine is a unique feature of New Zealand’s biotechnology sector. New Zealand has significant R&D capability, in both expertise and infrastructure, particularly within the Crown Research Institutes and its world class universities. The pharmaceutical market in New Zealand is growing at a very slow pace as the country is relatively a low-growth economy with an aging population.
Even though the size of New Zealand’s life science industry is small compared to other major players in Asia Pacific, the country also has some vibrant industry associations aiming to create a strong bioeconomy. In this issue BioSpectrum features three major associations engaged in accelerating New Zealand’s life science industry.
NZBIO
FactFile
NZBio is an incorporated society representing the New Zealand biotechnology sector. NZBio has been working closely with key agencies of the New Zealand Government to foster the ongoing development of the life sciences industry. NZBio is a member of the BioNet Asia Pacific (BNAP) initiative, which aims at fostering greater collaboration and partnering between allied agencies in the Asia Pacific region.
NZBio aims to work with the BNAP group over the coming years to create effective linkages that deliver real outcomes to benefit biotechnology across the region. In addition the association has refined its strategy, focusing on New Zealand’s bio-economy as a key contributor to a cohesive long term economic growth strategy, says Ms Bronwyn Dilley,
CEO, NZBio.
Working towards a strong bioeconomy
Since the New Zealand National Elections in November 2008, NZBio has been actively working to generate recognition of the necessity of a strong bioeconomy to New Zealand’s long term economic strategy. NZBio has released a position paper for the new government in 2008, and is undertaking a multi-faceted policy and advocacy campaign to ensure that New Zealand’s bioscience sector remains firmly on the agenda.
In Ms Dilley’s opinion, tax incentives for research and development, a strong public funding environment, ready access to capital, and the attraction, retention and development of internationally recognized skills are critical for the growth and development of the life science industry in New Zealand.
Five points
According to NZBio the five major areas which should have immediate attention by the government for the promotion of New Zealand’s bio industry are:
-
Improved process and quantities of public funding into research, science and technology, with specific emphasis on funding mechanisms which support the development of a vibrant bioeconomy.
-
Creation of an improved environment for private sector investment, including support for the development of a local venture capital industry and improved access to and support for alternative sources of capital, local or international.
-
A long term focus and commitment to the creation of Centers of Excellence in biosciences.
-
Streamlining regulatory systems and lessening the barriers to commercial development through regulatory harmonization, and a rational scientific approach to regulation of novel technologies, including genetic technologies.
-
Promotion of understanding throughout the general public of New Zealand on the consumer and business benefits that would be derived from a stronger and more vibrant bio-based economy.
Medical Technology Association of New Zealand
FactFile
Medical Technology Association of New Zealand (MTANZ) is the leading industry body representing medical technology manufacturers, importers and distributors of medical devices in New Zealand. MTANZ aims to increase awareness of the industry in New Zealand and internationally to ensure the healthcare system and patients’ benefit from innovative medical technology, and to support New Zealand manufacturers in developing markets offshore.
Major activities
MTANZ as the leading industry advocate for the medical technology industry has been at the forefront of consultation with Ministers of the Crown, Ministry of Health officials and District Health Boards of New Zealand. MTANZ continues to engage with policy makers, regulators and health care professionals to ensure optimum market access for medical technology. Its major activities include: liaison with key decision makers from all political parties; regular meetings with District Health Board New Zealand ( DHBNZ) on public hospital procurement and access; a close working relationship with Medsafe ( Ministry of Health) and other key government officials; representation on the NZBIO/Medical Technologies Special Interest Group to advance the development and manufacture of niche medical technologies; and representation on standards committees.
Communication and education
MTANZ develops an annual calendar of seminars and workshops that are designed to assist and support members in their business. Regular communications for members to ensure that they are kept informed with up-to-date industry issues that could influence how they manage their business. In this regard, leading experts and authorities are engaged to deliver workshops on regulations, procurement, advertising and other industry specific topics. MTANZ also does benchmarking and remuneration surveys, and publications and briefing material for consultation on emerging issues. According to MTANZ these activities are aimed at promoting medical technology as an investment that improves the quality of lives and saves healthcare dollars.
MTANZ has been the leading medical exhibition management specialist for 30 years. This service is provided for exhibiting medical suppliers who support the high standard of exhibitions facilitated by MTANZ.
MTANZ provides many opportunities for members to meet their peers, customers, government officials and other related business leaders whose activities can influence the healthcare environment and their business.
Regulatory Issues
Commenting on the regulatory issues, Mr Rohan Williams, President of MTANZ, said, "The status quo of no pre-market registration of devices entering New Zealand market cannot be sustained and discussions with the government and officials will resume in 2009. The proposed Therapeutic Products and Medicine Bill to establish the Australia New Zealand Therapeutic Products Authority (ANZTPA) is on hold. New medical device legislation to establish a pre-registration and post-market process will be introduced into New Zealand in the near future. Any discussions with the government will include the option of revisiting ANZTPA or developing regulations for New Zealand only."
Researched Medicines Industry Association of New Zealand
FactFile
-
Member Organizations: 20
-
CEO: Mr Ken Shirley
-
The Researched Medicines Industry Association of New Zealand (RMI) is the professional and trade organization representing companies engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of prescription medicines. Membership of the RMI is voluntary. The governing body of the RMI is its Board of Directors which consists of eight members elected annually from the CEOs of member companies.
Objectives
A central objective of the RMI is to promote the benefits of a strong research-based medicines industry in New Zealand. Towards this end it undertakes a number of key activities including: monitoring and evaluating health sector developments; undertaking research into issues of concern for the industry; making representations to central government on legislation and policies affecting its members; and maintaining relations with the Ministry of Health, its agencies and other interest groups within the sector, such as the New Zealand Medical Association.
For its member companies, the RMI provides a wide range of additional services such as briefings on policy initiatives and issues, information and advice to support member companies, and public relations activity on behalf of the industry.
| 
Comment on this article
