The life sciences and biotechnology sector in Central Europe is developing at an increasingly rapid pace. Lithuania, Poland, and the Czech Republic are joining forces to position the region as a European center for innovation and biotechnology production. This initiative marks the beginning of a new phase of cooperation – life sciences without borders – where science, industry, and startups merge into a single dynamic network.
Poland is a leader in European industrial production, with a strong biotechnology sector. The country is recognized for its high-value exports in several areas, one of which is biotechnology solutions and pharmaceuticals. Every year, Poland produces thousands of graduates in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medicine, chemistry, and biomedical engineering, ensuring a steady supply of specialists ready to work in research, clinical trials, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and medical device development. The life sciences sector in Poland is becoming increasingly competitive and innovative, making it more and more attractive to invest in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, regenerative and personalized medicine. According to a report by the Polish Trade and Investment Agency, there are 150,000-200,000 specialists working in the life sciences sector in Poland.
“Poland is strengthening its role as a key biotech hub in Central Europe. In 2023, internal R&D spending in biotechnology reached around €390 million, which is a 20.1% year-on-year increase, according to government data. With €500 million invested in 2023 and a rapidly expanding innovation infrastructure, Poland provides a strong foundation for the emerging Lithuania–Poland–Czech biotech corridor. Strengthening cross-border collaboration is crucial to consolidate the CEE region’s position as a competitive and innovation-driven life sciences hub in Europe, with biotech playing a key role,” says dr. Magdalena Kulczycka from the Biotech Innovation Institute.
The life sciences industry is considered to be the main strength of Lithuania’s bioeconomy in terms of research-based innovation, and the Lithuanian life sciences sector is one of the fastest growing in Europe. Currently, there are more than 300 life sciences companies operating in the country, developing R&D and innovation solutions, of which more than 120 are start-ups. 87% of life sciences products created in Lithuania are exported to major global markets – the US, the Netherlands, and Germany. Lithuania, which can also boast strong research centers and advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing, has already established itself as an engine of science-based innovation and a bridge between the academic community and industry.
“Our shared ambition is to strengthen the region’s position as a competitive hub for biotechnology innovation and production. By joining forces with partners in Poland and the Czech Republic, we can accelerate technology transfer, attract more investment, and create a unified Central European ecosystem where scientific excellence translates into global impact,” explains Tomas Andrejauskas, President of LithuaniaBIO.
The Czech Republic combines scientific excellence with growing investor interest. It is home to nearly 400 biotech-related entities, employing over 22,000 professionals and generating more than €3 billion in annual revenue. Over 12,000 students are currently enrolled in life sciences fields, ensuring a robust talent pipeline. Since 2003, the sector has attracted €1.5 billion in foreign direct investment according to CzechInvest – the Czech Investment and Business Development Agency. One notable example of growing investor confidence is the i&i Biotech Fund, launched in 2021 with approximately €50 million in backing from the European Investment Fund and private investors. The fund’s establishment highlights both the quality of Czech research and its commercial potential.
“The Czech Republic has a strong research tradition and a well-established academic foundation in biotechnology and life sciences. Our goal is to connect top-level research with innovative companies and support the growth of technologies with global impact. In May 2026, Prague will host the prestigious ‘BioEquity Europe’ conference – for the first time in Central and Eastern Europe. This event opens up new opportunities for the development of the biotech sector across the region. We believe that cross-regional cooperation is a strategic step towards creating an open and competitive Central European space, where science and business work together across borders,” emphasizes Petra Kinzlová, CEO of Prague.bio.
Thus, the life sciences and biotechnology ecosystems of the three countries mentioned above complement each other and create synergy, forming a borderless life sciences region in Central Europe. It will undoubtedly become an important part of not only the European but also the global ecosystem in these fields.
The upcoming stage of cooperation will also be discussed at the “Lithuania–Poland Life Sciences & Biotech Ecosystems Summit 2025”, taking place on November 27 in Vilnius. This strategic event aims to strengthen partnerships between two rapidly growing European regions in the life sciences and biotechnology sectors. The summit will feature presentations of the latest ecosystem initiatives, discussions on joint project directions, and opportunities for expanding investment cooperation. More information about the event and its program can be found here.
