Life Science Alley: R&D Makes German Medical Technologies Top in Europe

BERLIN, December 8 /PRNewswire/ — Germany is Europe’s largest market for
medical devices. Total industry revenue in 2007 amounted to EUR 17.3 billion
- a nearly 7 percent increase on 2006 figures. Investors looking to enter the
German and European markets can learn about Germany at Life Science Alley,
the largest convention of life science industry professionals in the American
Midwest. The conference takes place December 10, 2008 in Minneapolis,
Minnesota.

Germany’s research landscape is making its medical technologies some of
the most renowned and trusted worldwide. The country’s advanced R&D network
ensures that both patients and practitioners have access to the latest
medical technologies.

Currently German medical technology companies spend about 9 percent of
sales revenue on R&D. As a result, products under three years old account for
32 percent of industry revenue in Germany. Furthermore, Germany is number two
in the world in patent applications in medical technologies.

Demographic developments suggest that Germany will remain strong in
medical technologies in coming years. By 2015 it is expected that nearly one
fifth of Germany’s population will be over age 65, increasing the need for
advanced medical technologies and health care.

Existing clusters of manufacturers, research institutes, and clinics
allow companies of all sizes the chance to use Germany’s investment
conditions to maximize earnings quickly and efficiently. The availability of
investment incentives as well as R&D and labor incentives also makes the
country an attractive investment location.

Invest in Germany is the inward investment promotion agency of the
Federal Republic of Germany. It provides investors with comprehensive support
from site selection to the implementation of investment decisions. It can be
found at booth 301 at Life Science Alley.

    Media Contact:
    Eva Henkel
    Phone: +49-30-200099-173
    Fax:   +49-30-200099-111
    Email: henkel@invest-in-germany.com

SOURCE Invest in Germany GmbH