Why is China becoming a microfluidics manufacturing superpower?

Article written by Michele Wilson for Technology Networks – For the world of diagnostics, it’s an exciting time. The development of microfluidic devices has created incredible opportunities for medical research. With promising applications predicted for liquid biopsies, infectious disease detection and personalized medicine, it’s not surprising that the market for microfluidic devices has boomed in recent years. Recently, Yole Développement published a comprehensive overview of the Chinese microfluidics market, which is experiencing particularly rapid growth. To gain insights into the fascinating reasons for this, we spoke with Sébastien Clerc, Technologies & Market Analyst, Microfluidics & Medical Technologies at Yole Développement (Yole).

Michele Wilson: What is the objective of “Made in China 2025”, and what sectors will be affected? What has driven the Chinese government to invest so heavily in pharmaceuticals and medical devices?

Sébastien Clerc: “Made in China 2025” is a strategic plan announced in 2015 by the Chinese government which aims to increase the competitiveness of the country’s industry, especially in cutting-edge areas. The goal is to reduce China’s reliance on foreign technologies and suppliers, to develop a complete domestic supply chain and to become a manufacturing superpower.

The plan targets 10 high-tech industries, including “biopharma and advanced medical products”. In order to achieve these goals, national and regional governments direct large amounts of money into innovative Chinese companies to accelerate their development. With China having the world’s largest population, it is not surprising that China included medical devices, a high-tech sector, in the ‘Made in China 2025’ plan.

… Full interview

Source: www.technologynetworks.com