New Zealand's drug development industry - Strengths and opportunities

Aim: Globally the traditional model of drug development is changing and the large pharmaceutical companies are looking externally for innovative compounds, new technologies and cost-effective drug development services. New Zealand (NZ) can capitalise on its expertise in innovative drug discovery and development but needs to be able to define and promote its capabilities to the global drug development industry. An approach that will enable a ready assessment of NZ's expertise is presented. Method: Interviews will be carried out with key senior personnel from NZ drug discovery groups, drug development companies and organisations that provide a wide range of research and development services. The resulting data will be collated to document current capabilities and expertise, as well as limitations, in NZ's industry and assess their potential for the future. Participants will be asked to identify factors that support and factors that limit their organisation's progress in drug development and to suggest policies that could be implemented to positively influence future performance. Conclusion: A formal assessment of New Zealand's capabilities, strengths and limitations in drug development will aid in the promotion of its expertise to overseas organisations and enhance the economic benefits that could accrue to New Zealand.