With all kinds of applications, biotechnology contributes to various challenges in areas such as health, food production and the circular economy. It is essential that we in the Netherlands and Europe get innovations in this area on the market faster. In order to be less dependent on other countries and to remain competitive in the world. The government therefore has the ambition that the Netherlands belongs to the global leading group in biotechnology by 2040.
This is stated in the cabinet's vision on biotechnology, which the cabinet has approved on the proposal of Minister Beljaarts (Economic Affairs) and State Secretary Jansen (Infrastructure and Water Management).
Traditionally, the Netherlands has had a great deal of knowledge of biotechnology. In order to bring innovations to the market more quickly, the cabinet is looking at scrapping national heads and at possibilities for (regulation-free) test beds: both nationally and European. The cabinet will invest almost €1.3 billion extra in biotechnology in the coming years through projects in the National Growth Fund (NGF) alone.
Using these and other existing resources more specifically and investigating scope in current legislation and regulations can help to strengthen the Netherlands' position in this area in the short term. The cabinet is also looking at possible new financial incentive options for the longer term.
Strengthening the competitive position of the EU and the Netherlands in biotechnology
The (regulation-free) test gardens are in line with the EU Biotech Act and the Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Hub with which the European Commission wants to improve the competitive position of EU countries. The government also advocates in the EU for harmonising regulations between member states based on the latest scientific knowledge. This stimulates innovation and also ensures a level playing field within Europe itself.
Biotechnological innovations
For example, biotechnological innovations can make plants more resistant to drought, diseases and pests. The technology also makes it possible to develop medicines against infectious and rare diseases more quickly or to work on biodegradable and circular packaging. Industrial biotechnology is used for the production of various materials and fuels that contribute to the sustainability of the industry.
The letter to the House of Representatives about this government vision was co-signed by Minister Agema (VWS), State Secretary Karremans (VWS), Minister Bruins (OCW), Minister Hermans (KGG) and State Secretary Rummenie (LVVN).