Although being on the ‘threshold of biotech revolution’, India has fallen behind Chinese and American companies in infrastructure and manufacturing. A market research report, namely Indian Biotech Industry Profile (2005), published by RNCOS estimates this industry to reach $5 billion (Rs. 22,000 crore) by 2010. However, the industry, which has developed competence in pharmaceuticals and drug development, fears loss of patent rights which can lead to discovery of generic drugs.

The Indian biotech industry confronts several challenges. First, there is no increase in its budgets unlike in other major economies. Secondly, these activities could diminish the limited resources.

India now seeks new partners with Chinese and European firms apart from the US. RNCOS’ market research report points out that partnering in the biotech sector could alleviate poverty in India through effective medicine and improvements in agricultural and industrial productions. And it discusses the success of biotech collaboration in terms of business, export and economic stability in the country.

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