BIA update - 11 August 2025

Our role in shaping UK biotech's future

Life sciences are now a central focus of government policy, with a flurry of new strategies and plans launched recently. Over the summer, BIA is taking the time to explain what each of these mean for the sector and for our members.

This week, we dig into two key strategy documents: the UK Trade Strategy and the UK National Security Strategy. Both have significant implications for our sector and your company's future, especially in light of recent global events, and thanks to Linda Bedenik and Lewis Miles for dissecting these in a blog.

Your company’s future also depends on protecting it from hackers and malicious foreign states looking to steal UK IP. We’ve partnered with government national security experts for a must-watch, member-only Secure Innovation webinar on 11 September to help you protect your competitive advantage - sign up now.

Jane Wall
Managing Director, BIA

Life sciences at the heart of the UK Trade Strategy 

The government's new UK Trade Strategy is a welcome development, cementing life sciences as a key growth-driving sector. It is a clear signal that the government wants to leverage our innovation on the global stage. This strategy works hand-in-hand with the new Industrial Strategy and Life Science Sector Plan, with a core focus on supporting UK businesses as they scale up and expand internationally. 

In our Trade Strategy consultation response, we advised that government teams and agencies should cooperate, coordinate and be upskilled in the business models of innovative industries. Additionally, in our response, we also stressed that multilateral coalitions and mutual recognition agreements should be used to promote the convergence of global standards and regulations – recommendations that we are pleased to see clearly reflected in the strategy.  

Biosecurity and national security 

Also published in June, the UK's National Security Strategy reinforces the importance of our sector in protecting the nation. While its scope is broad, it rightfully highlights the risks and opportunities presented by advances in biology and AI. The strategy commits over £1 billion to bolster the UK’s biosecurity defences, including a new state-of-the-art facility for the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). 

BIA continue to work closely with the Government on biosecurity, including through our role on the Responsible Innovation Advisory Panel (RIAP). BIA is also working with government security experts to provide tailored advice and support for our members. You can find a suite of resources on our website and sign up for our Secure Innovation webinar on 11 September.   

Get involved - BIA Board, charity partnership and Gala Dinner

As we navigate this complex landscape and engage with these new opportunities, it is more important than ever that our membership is represented. Here are some ways you can get involved: 

• Board election nominations 

The BIA Board of Directors provides essential governance and direction, ensuring we represent the diverse interests of our industry. Nominations are now open for five new places. If you have the skills and motivation to help steer the BIA, please consider putting your name forward.

The deadline for nominations is Friday, 12 September 2025. See more details and eligibility requirements. 

• Charity Partnership of the Year 2026

Applications are now open for our 2026 charity partnership. This is a fantastic opportunity for a UK-based charity to collaborate with our members and raise funds and awareness for a meaningful cause. The deadline to apply is Sunday, 7 September 2025.  

• Upcoming events

Our autumn calendar is packed with opportunities to connect with the BIA community.

We're excited to announce that table bookings for our annual Gala Dinner are now open. This is always a highlight of the year and a great chance to network with peers.

Keep an eye on the website for further details on this and our other upcoming events. 

• Apply to join a BIA Community

If you are a member and an expert in an area covered by the list of BIA Communities, apply to join.