The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) has issued a stark warning that the UK is becoming a “contagion risk” for global investors in the life sciences sector. This alarming assessment highlights a significant trend where pharmaceutical companies are increasingly reallocating their research and development (R&D) investments to more favorable environments outside the UK.
This shift is attributed to a combination of regulatory uncertainties, funding challenges, and a perceived lack of supportive infrastructure for innovation within the UK. As a result, the UK risks losing its competitive edge in a sector that is vital for economic growth and public health. The implications of this trend are profound, as diminished investment could stifle the development of new therapies and technologies, ultimately affecting patient access and the overall health landscape.