New trends in biotechnology networking

The paper explores two emerging trends in biotechnology networking: the role of strategic partnering activity in the formation of knowledge-based networked oligopolies particularly in the pharmaceutical industry and the extension of partnering activity in biotechnology from advanced industrial to Third World countries. Both trends, it argues, bear further examination by both researchers seeking to better understand the strategies of biotechnology firms and the way these strategies are reconfiguring the health care industry and by policymakers seeking the best means to harness the potential economic benefits of biotechnology networking.

Keywords: biotechnology networking, strategic partnerships, oligopoly, pharmaceutical industry, developing countries, technological capabilities, north-south partnerships