A first strategic approach: Cuban and Scottish Biotech sectors are looking for mutual benefits

Ten Cuban scientists and business development executives participated in an inward mission to Scotland organized by the Glasgow City Councils and the United Kingdom Embassy in Havana.

Havana -- May, 29. Ten Cuban scientists and business development executives participated in an inward mission to Scotland organized by the Glasgow City Councils and the United Kingdom Embassy in Havana. This mission is a first approach between Cuban and Scottish biotechnology companies and institutions for a mutual recognition before starting to identify actual interests on joint development of research projects for human health and agriculture. The Cuban institutions participating in the first meeting were: Centre for Molecular Immunology, Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Finlay Institute, Neuroscience Centre, Blood Derivatives Plant and National Institute of Oncology and Radiobiology.

An overview presentation on Cuban Biotechnology as well as separate presentations on major activities at each Cuban institution was performed in the Glasgow City Chamber. Twenty Scottish companies and institutions were invited to these presentations to identify potential partnership opportunities. The Scottish research institutions participating in this historical meeting were: Roslyn Institute, Edinburgh University and Scottish Health Innovations. Additional meetings took place at the Lord Provosts Office, Glasgow University and Strathclyde Institute for Drug Research, among other centres.

Cuban Biotechnology has closed the value chain from research to commercialisation, generating positive cash flow and growth rate, more than 10 years ago. At the same time Scottish companies have the formula to survive biotech slump in Europe. Cuban representatives drew a tangible conclusion, during the mission: Cuba and Scotland can benefit from alliances in a transparency environment.