Nordic Life Science 1
HOT TOPIC // COLUMN The life science innovation g
ap between the EU and its global competitors continues to widen while the number of EU regulations affecting the industry is rising. Are we heading in the right direction? T E X T B Y J E S S I C A M A R T I N S S ON , C E O , S W E D E N B I O T HE BIOTECH ACT, the European Health Data Space, the EU Life Science Strategy, the General Pharmaceutical Legislation. The list of regulations, policies, directives, and plans emanating from the EU institutions in Brussels, Strasbourg, and Luxembourg can be intimidating. Keeping track of it all is even more of a challenge. The life science industry is among the most, if not the most, heavily regulated industries. After all, technologies relating to human health must be as well-regulated as the lab-developed treatments and substances intended for humans. Regulatory over-abundance However, the fast flow of new regulations is overwhelming. Especially given that the spectrum of legislation impacting the industry extends beyond sector-specific regulations. Life science companies must also contend with broader EU laws, such as the EU’s AI Act, legislation on sustainability, finance, and the steady stream of other new or updated regulations coming NORDICLIFESCIENCE.ORG | 17