Hon Pete Hodgson
Minister for Economic Development

16 June 2008 Media Statement

Hodgson to lead Biotech delegation to San Diego

Economic Development Minister Pete Hodgson will this week lead a delegation of 44 New Zealand biotech companies and research organisations attending Bio 2008 in San Diego.

Held from 17-20 June, Bio 2008 is the largest gathering of biotech brains in the world and will see tens of thousands of visitors and delegates through its doors, including the New Zealand delegation.

This year’s conference theme, “Heal. Fuel. Feed the World”, is particularly relevant to the New Zealand biotechnology sector and its drive towards sustainability.

“New Zealand’s biotechnology companies have the capability and ingenuity to help the world make the vital transition to environmentally-friendly, renewable and readily available processes and products,” says Pete Hodgson.

“It’s clear that, on a worldwide basis, we need to make better use of natural resources, develop environmentally sound products, as well as improve the quality and cost-effectiveness of healthcare. Our economies and lifestyles need to become more sustainable over the long term to continue our economic health and development,” he said.

“New Zealand is aiming to become carbon neutral by 2020, and biotechnology is an integral part of that goal,” he says. “Already New Zealand companies are applying smart biotechnology to drive good sustainable practice.”

Pete Hodgson says the conference provides an excellent opportunity to ensure New Zealand’s biotechnology capability and sustainability message is promoted to leading US and international biotech and pharmaceutical companies, researchers and investors.

While in San Diego, Pete Hodgson will meet with several leading biotechnology companies, as well as Gavin Jennings, Minister for Innovation, State Government, Victoria, Australia. He will also visit the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in Colorado.

“San Diego is a fantastic place to see the latest developments in the biotechnology industry. The city has a long record of successful biotechnology companies and it is particularly pleasing to see several New Zealand organisations operating or pursuing opportunities there,” says Pete Hodgson.

ENDS

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