Global issues such as intellectual property protections, follow-on
biologics/biosimilars, international networking for research and
development of neglected diseases and sustainable agriculture in
developing countries will all be primary focus areas.
Hosted by the Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), the 2008 BIO
International Convention will take place Tuesday, June 17 through
Friday, June 20, 2008 at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego
Calif. Wednesday, June 18th is International Day.
Biotechnology leaders from around the globe will be descending upon San
Diego, one of the leading biotech hubs in the world, to discuss the most
pressing issues and share their unique perspectives. In addition, there
will be a total of 36 regional and country pavilions within the BIO
Exhibition with several new pavilions, including Argentina, Brazil
Chile, Dubai, and South Africa.
This year´s convention will focus on the
promise of biotech innovation to heal, fuel and feed the world.
International case studies on biofuels, biomanufacturing, research
funding, and international collaborations will focus on examples from
Brazil, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, Korea, North America
Singapore, and Sweden. Two additional breakout session tracks will focus
on doing business globally and global health. A session entitled, "The
Dynamics of a Globalized World and the Future of the Biotechnology
Industry," will feature international public
officials sharing insights on the evolving business landscape.
This year´s keynote speakers include Gen.
Colin Powell, J. Craig Venter, Ph.D., and Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Additionally, numerous international public officials are expected to
attend, including José Lino Salvador Barañao
Minister of Science, Technology and Productive Innovation, Argentina;
Ewa Bjorling, Minister of Trade, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Sweden;
Suwit Khunkitti, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Industry
Chairman of the APEC Life Sciences Innovation Forum, Thailand; and Kapil
Sibal, Minister of Science and Technology, India.
Registration is complimentary for credentialed members of the media. To
register, visit www.bio2008.org/mediaregistration.
Reporters and editors working full-time for print, broadcast, and online
news organizations may register onsite with valid credentials. All
freelancers, college and online publications are strongly encouraged to
register in advance by Wednesday, June 4, 2008.
Registration for attendees is offered at an early-bird discounted rate
of nearly 40 percent off the regular rate until May 8, 2008 at www.bio2008.org/registration.
