Mergers and Acquisitions in the Pharmaceutical and Biotech Industries

This paper examines the determinants of M&A activity in the pharmaceutical-biotechnology industry and the effects of mergers using propensity scores to control for merger endogeneity. Among large firms, the authors find that mergers are a response to excess capacity due to anticipated patent expirations and gaps in a companys product pipeline.

Rice Biotechnology: Opportunity, Perceived Risks and Potential Benefits to Bangladesh

This paper has been prepared as part of CPDs ongoing agricultural policy research and advocacy activities with IRRI under the PETRRA project. It discusses the benefits and risks of rice biotechnology research and genetically engineered varieties developed from such research. It assesses the potential benefits of biotechnology for rice improvement in the context of Bangladesh.

Iowas Bioscience Pathway for Development

The plan highlights Iowa’s core competencies and platforms for development of the biosciences industry. The plan emphasizes the need to encourage and facilitate the commercialization of bioscience research and development while fostering a business environment that supports the growth and sustainability of Iowas firms. Twenty action steps to be undertaken by various groups are outlined through four broad focus areas.

Towards a Canadian R&D Strategy for Bioproducts and Bioprocesses

The report recommends that the Canadian Government invest substantial financial resources to support bioproduct and bioprocess R&D, as the country lags behind in this area. Currently, Canada does not have a strategy for the development of bioproducts and bioprocesses, and R&D in this field is not a priority of funding agencies and government departments.