Market Information
Europe

The Biotechnology Market in the Netherlands

July 2003

Prepared by the
Market Research Centre and the
Canadian Trade Commissioner Service

Report prepared by the Market Research Centre
Market Support Division (TCM)
Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
125 Sussex Drive, Ottawa K1A 0G2
Fax: (613) 943-1103
E-mail: mrc@dfait-maeci.gc.ca

The Market Research Centre produces a wide range of market reports by region and sector for Canadian exporters. These reports are available from:

- DFAIT's InfoExport Internet site ( http://www.infoexport.gc.ca ).

The Government of Canada has prepared this report based on primary and secondary sources of information. Readers should take note that the Government of Canada does not guarantee the accuracy of any of the information contained in this report, nor does it necessarily endorse the organizations listed herein. Readers should independently verify the accuracy and reliability of the information.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Netherlands has the fifth-largest biotechnology industry in Europe. There are approximately 300 companies in the Netherlands involved in biotechnology; together, these companies saw a turnover valued at $150 million(1) in 2002.

The open dialogue among government, industry and consumers has resulted in strict but effective legislation for biotechnology, which provides a high level of safety for animals, humans and the environment. Dutch consumers are generally well-informed about the pros and cons of biotechnology, particularly with regard to food. Environmental and consumer groups in the Netherlands judge issues on a case-by-case basis, as opposed to groups in other parts of Europe, which tend to reject biotechnology as a matter of principal.

Dutch strengths include diagnostics and therapeutics, plant biotechnology and environmental biotechnology. By 2010, the health-care sector may account for 34% of all biotech output in the Netherlands, while the food and agricultural biotech sector should experience dramatic growth and may account for 25-30% of the sector. Currently, however, environmental biotech output exceeds agriculture.

The most significant opportunities for Canadian biotech firms are in collaborative research partnerships and technology transfer agreements in these sectors. In addition, there will be a growing need for companies offering equipment, support services and technical experience to supply the market as the biotech industry in the Netherlands matures and expands.

MARKET OVERVIEW

With an estimated value of $150 million, the Netherlands has the fifth-largest biotech industry in Europe behind the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Sweden. Approximately 300 companies in the Netherlands are involved in biotechnology, employing a total of 1500-2000 people.

Dutch strengths include diagnostics and therapeutics, plant biotechnology and environmental biotechnology. By 2010, the health-care sector may account for 34% of all biotech output in the Netherlands, while the food and agricultural biotech sector may experience dramatic growth and account for 20-30% of the sector that year. Currently, however, environmental biotech output exceeds agriculture.

Characteristic of Dutch industry in general is the spirit of collaboration between the public and private sectors. As a result, there is strong communication among industry, consumers, government and environmental groups. Indeed, the industry is known to have an open and constructive dialogue with social organizations and environmental groups concerning the introduction of new biotech products. The Netherlands has also developed strong regulatory structures, including strict but workable legislation for biotechnology that focusses on human and animal health safety, as well as environmental protection.

The Dutch biotech industry is globally oriented in general and is highly supportive of forming international partnerships. Many foreign companies have based their European headquarters in the Netherlands, benefitting not only from a positive climate for biotechnology, but also the country's excellent transport and information technology infrastructures and its favourable tax climate.

Agricultural and Food Biotechnology

The agriculture and food biotech industry in the Netherlands is concentrated in the Wageningen Food Valley. This area is renown for strong government funding as well as quality research and educational institutions. Activity is focussed on plant genomics, agronomic research and, to a lesser extent due to public opposition, veterinary research, which is generally concentrated in Utrecht. Scientists in Wageningen have also developed expertise in functional foods, particularly sport-related food and drink, the role of anti-oxidants in food and human health, and the role of micronutrients.

Unlike in other European countries, genetically modified (GM) crops and food products are not a significant topic of public debate in the Netherlands. The traditional Dutch "Polder model" of consultation has ensured that interested parties on both sides of the GM debate have amicable discussions and keep each other abreast of new issues. As a result, government and industry organizations actively encourage the development and marketing of novel foods, both in safety assessment and product labelling procedures. In response, Microscreen, a Dutch-owned biotech company, and TNO, a domestic research organization, have developed monitoring and testing systems for food products.

Leading local companies include BaseClear, BioDetection Systems, CatchMabs BV, Cellscreen BV, Keygene N.V., Plant Research International B.V. and TNO. Agricultural biotechnology is also researched at Greenomics (a Plant Research International B.V. facility and part of Wageningen University and Research Centre), Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and Biotechnology Institute (GBB) and the Graduate School Vlag. Foreign participants in the agricultural and food sectors include Biotechnology Application Centre BV, a subsidiary of Unilever, and Bio-Rad Laboratories, a Dutch subsidiary of California-based Bio-Rad Labs.

Chemical Biotechnology

The chemicals sector is also embracing biotechnology, as evidenced by the growing number of companies focussing production on high added-value products such as raw materials for agro-chemicals and drugs. Research in the Netherlands with regard to chemicals tends to focus on enzymes. Dutch-owned DSM, for example, is using GM moulds as a cost-saving measure in the production of raw substances used to make antibiotics.

Biocatalysis research is also broad, ranging from basic to applied research. In 2002, researchers from five universities and several publically funded institutes were engaged in biocatalysis research.

The chemicals sector had an estimated value of $35.4 billion in 2000. Biotechnology accounted for 12-18% of turnover that year, a percentage that is expected to increase to 25% by 2010.

Environmental Biotechnology

The Netherlands is highly susceptible to pollution. The country is densely populated (16 million people) and has both a huge chemical industry and an intensive agriculture and livestock farming industry. The fact that much of the Netherlands is below sea level makes it vulnerable to pollution, as does its position at the estuary of the Rhine and Meuse rivers, which bring contaminants from the highly industrialized countries of Germany, Switzerland, France and Belgium. Pollution control and environmental protection are key national priorities and the population has a high level of environmental awareness.

Environmental biotechnology is one of the most advanced areas of research in the Netherlands. Dutch universities are conducting research into various types of bacteria with the ability to break down pollutants. Research also focusses on the recovery of primary raw materials.

Soil cleaning in the Netherlands has also achieved worldwide recognition, with its reputation founded on expertise in cleaning up highly complex "cocktails" of pollutants, often reducing them to undetectable levels. Polluted ground, including dredged material from rivers, is a major problem in the Netherlands, however - one that invites solutions from Canadian companies with new and innovative technologies.

Leading domestic companies include BioDetection Systems, CatchMabs BV, Cellscreen BV and TNO. The public research infrastructure consists of a network of research schools and institutes including the Graduate Research School of Biotechnological Sciences Delft Leiden, BioCentrum Amsterdam (joint venture of the University of Amsterdam and the Vrije Universiteit), Hubrecht Laboratorium (Utrecht University), Noordelijke Hogeschool Leeuwarden and the Van Hall Instituut. Bio-Rad Laboratories is also active in the field.

Medical/Pharmaceutical Biotechnology

Biopharmaceuticals are the primary strength of the Dutch biotech industry. As the science behind biotechnology develops, many traditional pharmaceutical companies are turning their attention to the potential of biotech processes and biopharmaceuticals. The industry, however, does not distinguish between biopharmaceuticals and pharmaceuticals.

In 2001, the Dutch pharmaceuticals market was valued at $7.8 billion or $469.48 per capita. Average annual growth in the Dutch pharmaceuticals markets is approximately 10%. The generics market grew at a faster rate than the pharmaceuticals market as a whole, at 15% in 2001. The slowest-growing segment of the market was hospitalprescribed drugs, which grew by only 2% in 2001. Prescription drugs accounted for the vast majority of the market, with over-the-counter (OTC) drugs accounting for approximately 12%. Most medicines consumed in the Netherlands are imported.

The Netherlands has a strong position in the global market for niche, biotech-related pharmaceuticals. Although the Netherlands has no major pharmaceutical companies, there are over 50 biotech companies active in health care. Of these, 40 companies use biotech approaches for their human health-care products, while the remaining 10 companies use biotech for veterinary applications. Over 60 biotech medicines are on the market currently.

An important source of knowledge for medical biotechnology is the rapidly developing field of genomics. At present pharmacogenomics is the main focus for Dutch biotech companies. This focus could lead to genetically customized medicines.

Of the 50-plus biotech companies active in health care, AkzoNobel, along with its subsidiaries Organon, Diosynth and Intervet, is the leading domestic leader in the development of biotech pharmaceuticals. Other leading domestic companies include Crucell, IsoTis, Gene Pharming, Primagen Holding, Rhein Biotech NV, Quiagen and Jari Pharmaceuticals BV.

Key Factors Shaping Market Growth

Currently, the Netherlands ranks tenth in Europe in total number of biotech start-up companies. The Dutch government would like to see the Netherlands rise to the top few countries and is, therefore, encouraging growth in the biotech sector. This encouragement includes a $94-million R&D investment in the sector. The Ministry of Economic Affairs2 has also set up initiatives such as the BioPartner Network to facilitate and stimulate the growth of the industry. The BioPartner Network assists spin-off and start-up companies by providing funding, through subsidies and risk capital, as well as facilities to new companies. The BioPartner Network currently supports groups and individuals focussed on molecular diagnostics, production of medicinal proteins in nectar and honey and bioresolutions for the fine-chemical industry.

Factors shaping the consumption and pricing of pharmaceuticals in the Netherlands include growing government pressure to contain health-care costs, an ageing population, the emergence of new products, the shift from curative to preventative health care, and the shift from institutional to out-patient care. As a result of these factors, the market is expected to change significantly over the next several years. For example, by 2005, the number of persons over the age of 65 will increase by over 20%; the number of persons over the age of 80 will increase by 33%. By 2005, fully one third of the population will be over 50 years of age. As the population ages, demand for pharmaceuticals will likely increase.

Public Opinion Issues

Unlike in other European countries, there has not been a strong public outcry against biotechnology and genetically altered food products in the Netherlands. There has been some resistance to the introduction of food products without labels, but the industry has not faced the violence and negative publicity seen in other countries. In general, the Dutch accept biotech products that are beneficial to human health or the environment, but have a strongly negative opinion of technology that raises ethical issues or involves the modification of humans or animals. Studies indicate that consumer and environmental groups in the Netherlands judge biotechnology on a case-by-case basis. In contrast, groups in other European countries tend to reject biotechnology outright, based on "a matter of principle".

The Dutch agriculture industry, however, is sensitive to the demands for non-GM food products. To date, retailers have protected themselves from public backlash against GM products by ensuring GM-free alternatives are available and by supporting compliance with labelling regulations.

Opportunities

As a result of strong government support for biotechnology, the industry is in a growth and development phase, providing significant opportunities for strategic alliances between Canadian and Dutch firms.

Canada is, traditionally, a major supplier of food products to the Netherlands. The Dutch marketplace is changing: affluence and changing lifestyles have created a larger demand for variety, including for convenience foods and high-value specialty foods. Increasingly, Canada is becoming an important source for the Dutch consumer of both technology and value-added food products. Significant potential exists for collaborative research opportunities in the area of functional foods - foods designed with specific health benefits. The finished biotech product market for agriculture is also expected to expand in a number of areas in the coming years, including industry supplies (e.g. processing aids), microbial crop protectants and herbicides, and genetically engineered pest-resistant agricultural products.

Due to strict environmental legislation and increased public pressure, the environmental biotech industry in the Netherlands has strong potential for growth. Applications include conversion of waste into useful products, more compact reactors and treatment centres for waste water, as well as process control and monitoring techniques. There are also large areas of the country that require soil remediation to reclaim and return the land to useful production.

There are strong opportunities for Canadian exporters of bio-medical products. Pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, vaccines and antigens offer the best sales prospects for at least the next three years. The licensing and milestone market is also expected to have openings for drug-discovery, gene-sequencing and gene-mapping services. Canadian firms with expertise in these areas could find opportunities for collaboration with Dutch firms.

As the biotech industry in the Netherlands matures and expands, there will be a growing need for companies offering equipment, support services and technical experience to supply the market. There are good export prospects for cell- and tissue-cultivating equipment, fermentation equipment, bioreactor systems, high-performance liquid chromatography equipment, columns and accessories, electrophoresis instruments, pilot plant systems and process analysis systems.

COMPETITIVE ENVIRONMENT

Local Capabilities

The Dutch biotech industry is supported by a strong legislative framework and government programs. These programs, which first supported R&D, are now geared toward product marketing, new company start-up and the commercialization of research results.

The Netherlands has a strong public research infrastructure. It is home to 22 universities with biotech expertise. Moreover, one quarter of research schools in the country are engaged in biotech research.

Dutch biotech firms enjoy a worldwide reputation for excellence, as evidenced by the high level of Dutch participation in EU research projects as well as the quantity and quality of publications issued annually. The Netherlands also files more patent applications per capita than the global biotech leaders and is among the 10 most productive countries for obtaining copyrights and patents.

Over 90% of domestic biotech firms have offices or subsidiaries abroad.

International Competition

Strong competition is felt from larger industries in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, the United States, Canada and, increasingly, Japan.

Several leading biotech multinationals have established branches in the Netherlands including Novartis (Switzerland) and Unilever (U.K.). U.S.-based companies active in the market include Amgen, Biogen, Centecor, EuroCefcus and Gene Pharming.

Canadian Position

Canada's positive relations with the world's most prominent economies, as well as its global reputation for scientific excellence, give Canadian companies an advantage in expanding their businesses to European markets. Canadian companies are wellpositioned to provide joint-venture partnerships, public education initiatives and commercialization expertise to the Dutch biotech industry, as well as a broad range of products resulting from Canadian R&D efforts.

Canada's strengths in applying biotechnology to agricultural commercialization may be of interest to Dutch producers and researchers. The Canadian agricultural biotech industry has already received government approval for a number of genetically altered products. Canadian experience in this area will be valuable to the Dutch biotech industry as Dutch approval and monitoring processes are put into place.

Several Canadian companies are active in the Dutch market. Montreal-based ProMetic Life Sciences Inc., for example, concluded a licensing agreement in early 2002 with PharmAAware SEPSIS B.V. to develop both diagnostic kit and a therapeutic protein for the treatment of sepsis and septic shock. PharmAAware has obtained rights to ProMetic technology for purification of the enzyme alkaline phosphatase, and plans to exploit its endotoxin-neutralizing properties.

Competitive Advantage through Canadian Government Policies and Initiatives

Canadian Commercial Corporation

The Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) gives Canadian companies access to financing and better payment terms under the Progress Payment Program (PPP). The PPP concept was developed as a partnership between major Canadian financial institutions and the CCC. It enables the exporter's bank to open a project line of credit for the exporter's benefit, based on CCC approval of the project and the exporter's ability to perform. The CCC will also act as a prime contractor on behalf of Canadian small and medium-sized enterprises, giving those businesses increased credibility and competitive advantage.

Export Development Canada

Export Development Canada (EDC) offers export financing and insurance to Canadian exporters. Additionally, insurance can be provided for larger transactions that are subject to the terms and conditions established by the buyer. EDC prefers to work through letters of credit, bank credits or bank guarantees. Approval for financing is considered on a case-by-case basis.

New Exporters to Overseas

The New Exporters to Overseas (NEXOS) program helps Canadian companies that have not yet exported to Europe. NEXOS introduces the essentials of exporting and provides practical information and first-hand exposure to European markets. The program emphasizes information in areas such as customs procedures, market access, shipping, labelling, distribution channels and currency regulations. Flexibility and fast turnaround times are the hallmarks of this program. Each mission includes thorough briefings on how to find an agent, a distributor, an associate, in other words how to do business in the destination country.

NEXOS missions are arranged for groups of companies in the same general sector. Because of this, applications from individual firms cannot always be entertained. Individual companies are advised to work with a Canadian organization such as an industry association, chamber of commerce, international trade centre or provincial government to assemble a group of at least six companies on whose behalf a program can be arranged.

The mission is usually built around an event such as a national or international trade fair. Participants are responsible for their own transportation, accommodation and living expenses. NEXOS will cover associated program expenses such as meeting rooms, speakers and local transportation.

Canadian firms must be registered in the WIN Exports database to be eligible to participate.

Contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT), European Business Development Section (REB) for more information about NEXOS.

Virtual Trade Commissioner

The Virtual Trade Commissioner (vTC) is a new on-line service offered by Canada's Trade Commissioner Service of the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. Through a personalized and password-protected Web page, vTC-registered Canadian exporters will receive timely and relevant information on contacts and business opportunities in targeted foreign markets. The vTC offers registered users direct on-line access to market information, including market reports, business news, events and business leads related to the companies' industry sectors and markets of interest. Users can request services on line from a trade commissioner responsible for their industry sector in their target markets. They will also automatically receive new information as it becomes available. Canadian exporters can register for a Virtual Trade Commissioner at http://www.infoexport.gc.ca.

PRIVATE-SECTOR CUSTOMERS

The Netherlands is home to internationally renown research institutions and scientists in the area of biotechnology. There is strong interest in technology transfer and collaborative research ventures in the Netherlands. As is typical in the biotech industry, companies often require partnerships in order to help finance product development. Collaborative research work is also beneficial to help penetrate a new market.

In 2001, there were approximately 2200 pharmacies in the Netherlands. Over 1600 of these were operated by pharmacists; the remainder were operated by physicians. OTC products represent 12% of the total pharmaceuticals market. Both pharmacies and druggists sell OTC medications and are therefore important customers for pharmaceutical manufacturers. Approximately 5.8% of OTC products are sold through supermarkets.

PUBLIC-SECTOR CUSTOMERS

Government Organizations

The Government of the Netherlands is a strong supporter of biotechnology. The ministries of Economic Affairs, of Education, Culture and Sciences, and of Agriculture, Nature Management and Fisheries are particularly concerned with bioindustries, biomedical research and agricultural biotechnology. These ministries support various research institutions across the country. Regional governments also look to this sector as one for potential long-term growth and high-tech employment. Federal and regional governments support biotechnology through direct funding, investment incentives and the creation of research centres of excellence.

Canadian companies interested in targeting government-funded research institutions for technology transfer agreements, licensing or partnering opportunities should continue their market research by perusing the company information offered through the contacts and Web sites listed at the end of this report. Furthermore, the vTC and the Canadian Embassy in the Hague can provide guidance on how to enter this market.

Government Procurement Regulations

Procurement regulations in the Netherlands comply with the World Trade Organization's Agreement on Government Procurement and EU procurement directives. Tenders are issued in Dutch and English, although all technical documents will be in Dutch only. All bids should be submitted in Dutch, unless otherwise indicated; there are some highly technical fields where English submissions are accepted. Canadian firms should inquire before submitting an English-language bid.

All public tenders over €5 million (approximately $8 million) are published in the Tenders Electronic Daily (TED) database, a supplement of the Official Journal of the European Communities and the Dutch government gazette (Staatscourant).

There is a growing tendency in the Dutch market to purchase from a company located in the Netherlands or, alternatively, in Europe. Therefore, local representation is recommended before, during and after the procurement process. This is particularly important if the successful company is providing services or equipment.

MARKET LOGISTICS

Channels of Distribution

With Rotterdam as the largest seaport in the world, Amsterdam as the fourth-largest cargo airport in Europe, and an intricate network of river barge and highway transportation systems, the Netherlands is strategically located as a distribution centre for other EU countries. A variety of importers, sales agents and distributors in the Netherlands have expertise in international trade; however, because of strong competition, most will insist on an exclusive distributorship. Legislation exists to protect agents from dismissal and breach of contract. Most Dutch have a working knowledge of English, but Canadian companies should make the effort to translate promotional materials into Dutch.

Distributors and Wholesalers

Canadian manufacturers who are new to the market are advised to appoint a distributor or wholesaler to represent their interests in the Netherlands. The leading wholesale pharmaceutical distributor in the Netherlands is Apothekers Cooperatie OPG U.A. (OPG). Other major distributors include Euromedica, Brocacef Holding and Interpharm Group BV.

Joint Ventures and Partnerships

Joint ventures between Canadian and Dutch companies are quite feasible since Dutch researchers are increasingly interested in forming strategic alliances with foreign firms. Canadian companies involved in joint ventures with Dutch companies can take advantage of their partner's knowledge of the local market, cultural and technological differences, existing customer-base and dealer network, marketing and sales experience and support services.

A local partner can further establish valuable connections with government and local officials. The most important step is to find a good local partner who is well-connected in the industry. Assistance in identifying appropriate Dutch business partners may be obtained by contacting the Canadian Embassy in the Netherlands.

It is advisable that Canadian companies check the background of a potential partner company. All Dutch companies must be listed with their local chamber of commerce and the Netherlands Foreign Trade Agency.

Market-entry Considerations

Suggested Business Practices

Dutch companies often operate in a complex business culture in which consensus is sought among government bodies and industry associations - all of which are often in close consultation. Egalitarianism is a central tenant of Dutch society and everyone affected by a decision will be consulted, no matter their position in the company. Generally, the Dutch are known to speak their minds and will not waste time if they are not interested in a product or service. Punctuality is very important for all business and social meetings, and all appointments should be made well in advance.

Import Regulations

As an EU member, the Netherlands follows the Community Integrated Tariff (TARIC) system, which applies duties to all imports from non-EU countries. Dutch import duties for pharmaceuticals range from 3% to 6% and are based on the cost, insurance and freight (c.i.f.) value of the shipment. The receiver of the goods must pay a 6% valueadded tax (VAT) for necessities of life including food, medicines and transportation, and a 17.5% VAT on most other goods including OTCs (note that the VAT is based on the c.i.f. value).

Pharmaceuticals may be imported only by qualified pharmaceutical companies located in the Netherlands or other EU countries. For this reason, Canadian companies must negotiate with a company within the European Union to license pharmaceuticals for sale, to purchase a Dutch company or to establish a corporate subsidiary in the European Union.

Intellectual Property Protection

Patents

The Netherlands is a signatory to the Paris Convention, the World Intellectual Property Organization, the Patent Co-ordination Treaty and the European Patent Convention. This means that any person applying for a patent in one of the signatory countries enjoys a one-year priority right to register the same patent in the Netherlands. Companies should contact the European Patent Office for inquires about registering patents. The Netherlands Industrial Property Office is responsible for granting national patents. Additional patent protection is available through EU Directive 98/44/EC for pharmaceutical products containing biological material or for processes involving biological material.

Trademarks

The Uniform Benelux Law on Trademarks governs the registration of trademarks in the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg. According to the law, a trademark must be registered for the entire territory - not only one or two countries. The first user of a mark is entitled to its registration. Applications should be filed with the Benelux Trademark Office.

Trademarks are registered in the Benelux countries for 10 years from the date of application and are renewable for 10-year periods. Before beginning the trademark process, Canadian exporters should consult professional agents.

The European Community Trademark Act established the Community Trade Mark with a registration system that came into force on April 1, 1996. The system co-exists with national registration systems. Applications are filed with the Interior Market Harmonizing Office in Spain.

Copyrights

The Netherlands currently recognizes a copyright for the life of the author/inventor plus 70 years. In May 1998, the European Union passed legislation that allows for copyright protection of biotech inventions, including artificial genes.

Local Standards, Certificates or Registrations

Canadian firms exporting to Europe are still confronted with both national and EU product standards. These regulations occasionally change to meet new technology and more stringent demands.

Agricultural and Food Biotechnology

European Union

In an effort to rebuild public confidence in EU food safety regimes, the European Commission has proposed regulations on labelling and traceability. These regulations will require genetically modified organisms (GMOs) to be documented on a transformation event basis. Under the new proposal, all food and animal products imported by EU countries must bear a label alerting consumers of the presence of GM ingredients. The new regulations also include measures that impose the separation of GM and conventional crops. For further details, consult "Canadian Exporters' Guide to Food Labelling & Packaging Requirements of the European Union" at http://ats.agr.ca/info/europe/e1429.htm.

The Netherlands

The Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment (VROM) is responsible for implementing EU directives on both the release of GMOs into the environment and the contained use of GMOs. Decisions are made with the consultation and agreement of the Minister of Agriculture, Nature Management and Fisheries. Anyone wishing to conduct research or work with GMOs must receive a permit under the Environmental Protection Act and notify the VROM of their work.

The Committee on Genetic Modification (COGEM) is an independent technical and scientific advisory committee in the Netherlands, appointed by VROM. Beyond advising on safety issues concerning biotechnology, COGEM is tasked with alerting relevant authorities to any possible ethical and social concern. The committee is composed of scientists who are subdivided into eight subcommittees concerned with plants, animals, microorganisms, viruses, large-scale activities, medical issues, education and information, and ethical and social issues.

Medical Biotechnology

European Union

Canadian prescription drugs must be approved by the European Agency for the Evaluation of Medical Products (EMEA) before they can be sold in the Netherlands. As of January 1995, registration in any EU state is recognized by all other EU members.

EMEA approval must be obtained for all biotech and other high-tech pharmaceutical products, but is optional for other products. The EMEA application and approval process takes 300-400 days, and the cost is approximately $250 000 (20-40% less than the cost of obtaining a single, national approval). The EMEA is responsible for ensuring quality and safety of all medical products and monitoring compliance with specific guidelines.

The Netherlands

The Medicines Evaluation Board (MEB) is an independent administrative body comprising doctors and pharmacists who are appointed by the Crown and responsible for authorizing medical products for human use in the Netherlands. The MEB is also involved in granting European marketing authorization and works collaboratively with the EMEA.

In order to obtain marketing authorization for new products, Canadian prescription drugs must be registered by a Dutch company (either a manufacturer or distributor) that is officially designated as being able to submit registration applications. This company must submit information related to the quality, safety and efficacy of the product, as well as a proposal for public product information leaflets. Once the file is reviewed by a panel of experts, the MEB decides whether to grant marketing authorization and, if such authorization is granted, finalizes product information texts. All product labelling must include the marketing authorization number, beginning with "RVG." Other EU members are expected to recognize this marketing authorization, unless there are serious objections related to public health. In such cases, manufacturers can apply for arbitration by the EU Committee for Proprietary Medicinal Products.

The MEB is responsible for limiting conditions under which a product is authorized, as well as for suspending or revoking market authorization if new information is presented concerning adverse reactions. Determination of the legal status (prescription or OTC) of a new drug is also set by the MEB. For details on product labelling, registration applications and fees, contact the MEB.

Export Credit Risks, Restrictions on Letter of Credit, Currency Controls

The most common method of payment from the Netherlands is by open account. Payments for large shipments are frequently done by irrevocable letter of credit.

Payment on delivery is quite common, particularly on new accounts, but buyers will accept a discount of between 2% and 3% and payment is 30 days net. Otherwise, payment terms are either 30, 60 or 90 days from the date of the invoice.

PROMOTIONAL EVENTS

Event:
Sixth Annual European Biotechnology Symposium
September 2003 (Annual)
Krasnopolsky Hotel
Amsterdam, Netherlands

Organizer
Biotech Conferences International Inc.
2 Madison Ave.
Larchmont, NY 10538
Tel.: 1-800-524-6266
Fax: (914) 834-4329
E-mail: info@liebertpub.com

Event:
11th Annual BioPartnering Europe
October 12-14, 2003 (Annual)
Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre
London, England

Organizer
Technology Vision Group LLC
5161 Soquel Dr., Suite G
Soquel, CA 95073
Tel.: (831) 464-4230
Fax: (831) 464-4240
E-mail: Info@techvision.com
Internet: http://www.techvision.com/bpe03/index.htm

Event:
Bio-Europe
November 17-19, 2003 (Biennial)
Frankfurt, Germany

Organizer
E.B.D. Group
Pettenkoferstrasse 35
80336 Muenchen, Germany
Tel.: (49-89) 5139-9803
Fax: (49-89) 5442-0214
E-mail: bioeurope@ebdgroup.com
Internet: http://www.ebdgroup.com/bioeurope

Event:
BioSquare 2004
March 10-12, 2004 (Annual)
Basel, Switzerland
Kongresszentrum Basel

Organizer
E.B.D. Group
6120 Paseo del Norte, Suite J-2
Carlsbad, CA 92009
Tel.: (760) 930-0500
Fax: (760) 930-0520
E-mail: tvoigt@ebdgroup.com
Internet: http://www.ebdgroup.com/biosquare

Event:
Medica
March 2005 (Biennial)
Jaarbeurs, Utrecht, Netherlands
International health-care exhibition

Organizer
Jaarbeurs Exhibitions and Media
Postbus 8800
3503 RV Utrecht, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-30) 295-2700
E-mail: medica@jem.nl
Internet: http://www.medica-online.nl

Event:
ACHEMA 2003
May 2004 (Annual)
Frankfurt, Germany
International exhibition-congress on chemical engineering, environmental protection, and biotechnology

Organizer
DECHEMA
PO Box 15 01 04
D-60061, Frankfurt, Germany
Tel.: (49-69) 7564-230, -238 or -434
Fax: (49-69) 7564-298
E-mail: lenke@achema.de
Internet: http://aurum2.dechema.de/achema2003/new/
homepage/home_e_small.htm

KEY CONTACTS AND SUPPORT SERVICES

Canadian Government Contacts

Canadian Embassy, Netherlands
Sophialaan 7
The Hague, Netherlands
Contact: Judith Baguley, Commercial Officer
Tel.: (31-70) 311-1600
Fax: (31-70) 311-1682
E-mail: hague-td@dfait-maeci.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.canada.nl

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Market and Industry Services Branch
Sir John Carling Building
930 Carling Ave.
Ottawa, ON K1A 0C5
Tel.: (613) 759-1000
Fax: (613) 759-6726
E-mail: pirs@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.agr.gc.ca

Business Development Bank of Canada
5 Place Ville Marie, Suite 400
Montreal, QC H3B 5E7
Tel.: (877) 232-2269
Fax: (877) 329-9232
E-mail: info@bdc.ca
Internet: http://www.bdc.ca

Canadian Commercial Corporation
50 O'Connor St., Suite 1100
Ottawa, ON K1A 0S6
Tel.: 1-800-748-8191 or (613) 996-0034
Fax: (613) 995-2121
Internet: http://www.ccc.ca

Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Office of Biotechnology
59 Camelot Dr.
Nepean, ON K1A 0Y9
Tel.: (613) 225-2342
Fax: (613) 228-6653
E-mail: cfiamaster@agr.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.cfia-acia.agr.ca

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
125 Sussex Dr.
Ottawa, ON K1A 0G2
Internet: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Market Support Division (TCM)
Contact: Christopher Duggen, Trade Commissioner
Tel.: (613) 996-1431
Fax: (613) 943-8820
E-mail: christopher.duggan@dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Western Europe Division (REO)
Contact: Donald Marsan, Desk Officer
Tel.: (613) 996-7544
Fax: (613) 995-5772
E-mail: donald.marsan@dfait-maeci.gc.ca

Export Development Canada
151 O'Connor St.
Ottawa, ON K1A 1K3
Tel.: (613) 598-2500
Fax: (613) 237-2690
E-mail: export@edc.ca
Internet: http://www.edc.ca

Health Canada
International Affairs Directorate
Brooke Claxton Building, Room 814A
Postal Locator 0908A
Tunney's Pasture
Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9
Tel.: (613) 941-3136
Fax: (613) 952-7417
Internet: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca

Industry Canada
Life Sciences Branch
9th Floor, East Tower
235 Queen St.
Ottawa, ON K1A 0H5
Tel.: (613) 954-4715
Fax: (613) 952-4209
E-mail: biotech.strategis@ic.gc.ca
Internet:http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/SSG/bo01376e.html

Trade Team Canada Bio-Industries
Internet: http://ttcbio.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/inbio.nsf/
vwGeneratedInterE/home

Dutch Government Contacts

Royal Netherlands Embassy
Constitution Square Building
350 Albert St., Suite 2020
Ottawa, ON K1R 1A4
Tel.: (613) 237-5030
Fax: (613) 237-6471
E-mail: ott@minbuza.nl
Internet: http://www.netherlandsembassy.ca

Benelux Trademarks Office (Merkenbureau)
Bordewijklaan 15
2591 XR The Hague, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 349-1111
Fax: (31-70) 347-5708
E-mail: info@bmb-bbm.org
Internet: http://www.bmb-bbm.org

Council for Public Health and Care (Raad voor de Volksgezondheid en Zorg)
PO Box 7100
2701 AC Zoetermeer, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-79) 368-7311
Fax: (31-79) 362-1487
E-mail: r.v.z@pi.nl

Medicines Evaluation Board (College ter Beoordeling van Geneesmiddelen)
Kalvermarkt 53
2511 CB The Hague, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 356-7400
Fax: (31-70) 356-7515
Internet: http://www.cbg-meb.nl

Mailing address:
PO Box 16229
2500 BE The Hague, Netherlands

Ministry of Agriculture, Nature Management and Fisheries
(Ministerie van Landbouw, Natuurbeheer en Visserij)
Bezuidenhoutseweg 73
PO Box 20401
2500 EK The Hague, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 378-6868
Fax: (31-70) 378-6100
Internet: http://www.minlnv.nl/international

Ministry of Economic Affairs
(Ministerie van Economische Zaken)
Biotechnology Policy Unit
PO Box 20101
2500 EC, The Hague, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 379-6881
Fax: (31-70) 379-6880

Ministry of Education, Culture and Science
(Ministerie van Onderwijs, Cultuur en Wetenschappen)
PO Box 25000
2700 LZ Zoetermeer, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-79) 323-3270
Fax: (31-79) 323-4921
Internet: http://www.minocw.nl

Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport
(Ministerie van Volksgezondheid, Welzijn en Sport)
Parnassusplein Netherlands
2511 VX The Hague, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 340-7911
Fax: (31-70) 340-7890
Internet: http://www.minvws.nl

Mailing address
PO Box 20350
2500 EJ The Hague, Netherlands

Ministry of Housing, Spatial Planning and the Environment
Rijnstraat 8
2515 XP The Hague, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 339-3939
Internet: http://www.vrom.nl/pagina.html

Mailing address:
PO Box 20951
2500 EZ The Hague, Netherlands

National Institute for Public Health and Environment
(Rijksinstituut voor Volksgezondheid en Milieu [RIVM])
PO Box 1
3720 BA Bilthoven, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-30) 274-9111
Fax: (31-30) 274-2971
E-mail: info@rivm.nl
Internet: http://www.rivm.nl (In Dutch)

Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency
One Rockefeller Plaza
New York, NY 10020
Tel.: (212) 246-1434
Fax: (212) 246-9769
E-mail: info@nfia.com
Internet: http://www.nfia.com

Netherlands Industrial Property Office (NIPO)
Patentlaan 2
ZH Rijswijk, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 398-6655
Fax: (31-70) 390-0190
E-mail: publieksvoorlichting@bie.minez.nl
Internet: http://www.bie.nl

Netherlands Standards Institute (Nederlands
Normalisatie Instituut [NNI])
Vlinderweg 6
2623 AX Delft, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-15) 269-0390
Fax: (31-15) 269-0190
Internet: http://www.nni.nl

Mailing address:
PO Box 5059
2600 GB Delft, Netherlands

Canadian Industry Contacts

Association of Health Technologies Industry (AHTI)
8475 Christophe-Colomb Ave.
PO Box 175, Youville Station
Montreal, PQ H2P 2V4
Contact: Lorraine Beaudoin, President
Tel.: (514) 383-3268
Fax: (514) 383-3263
E-mail: info@aits.ca
Internet: http://www.aqfim.com

BioAtlantech
PO Box 636, Station A
Fredericton, NB E3B 5A6
Tel.: (506) 444-2444
Fax: (506) 444-5662
E-mail: jargall@fundy.net
Internet: http://www.bioatlantech.nb.ca

BioEast
2nd Floor, Spencer Hall
220 Prince Phillip Dr.
St. John's, NF A1B 3X5
Tel.: (709) 737-4527
Fax: (709) 737-4029
E-mail: info@bioeast.ca
Internet: http://www.bioeast.ca

BIONova
1721 Lower Water St.
Halifax, NS B3J 1S5
Tel.: (902) 421-5705
Fax: (902) 421-2733
E-mail: info@bionova.ns.ca
Internet: http://www.bionova.ns.ca

BioQuebec
6100 Mount Royal Ave.
Montreal, QC H4P 2R2
Tel.: (514) 733-8411
Fax: (514) 733-8272
Internet: http://www.bioquebec.com

BIOTECanada
130 Albert St., Suite 420
Ottawa, ON K1P 5G2
Tel.: (613) 230-5585
Fax: (613) 563-8850
E-mail: info@biotech.ca
Internet: http://www.biotech.ca

Biotechnology Alberta
10th Floor, Manulife Place
10180-101 St.
Edmonton, AB T5J 3S4
Tel.: (780) 425-3804
E-mail: info@bioalberta.com
Internet: http://www.bioalberta.com

British Columbia Biotechnology Alliance
1430-1188 W Georgia St.
Vancouver, BC V6E 4A2
Tel.: (604) 669-9909
Fax: (604) 669-9912
Internet: http://www.bcbiotech.ca

Canadian Agri-Food Research Council
Building 60, Heritage House
Central Experimental Farm
Ottawa, ON K1A 0C6
Tel.: (613) 234-2325
Fax: (613) 234-2330
Internet: http://www.carc-crac.ca

Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance (CAIA)
75 Albert St, Suite 907
Ottawa, ON K1P 1E7
Tel.: (613) 239-0612
Fax: (613) 239-0619
E-mail: caiaoffice@aquaculture.ca
Internet: http://www.aquaculture.ca

Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Association (CME)
National Office
1 Nicholas St., Suite 1500
Ottawa ON K1N 7B7
Tel.: (613) 238-8888
Fax: (613) 563-9218
Internet: http://www.cme-mec.ca

Canadian Medical Association
1867 Alta Vista Dr.
Ottawa, ON K1G 3Y6
Tel.: (800) 457-4205 or (613) 731-9331
Fax: (613) 236-8864
Internet: http://www.cma.ca

Toronto Biotechnology Initiative
Box 446, Station A
Toronto, ON M5W 1C2
Tel.: (416) 392-4780
Fax: (416) 397-0906
E-mail: info@torontobiotech.org
Internet: http://www.torontobiotech.org

Dutch Industry Contacts

BG Pharma (Federation of Wholesalers Pharmaceutical Industry)
Kuiperbergweg 50
1101 AG Amsterdam Zuidoost, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-20) 696-0876
Fax: (31-20) 696-0986
An association of pharmaceutical wholesalers with four members: Brocacef, Interpharm, OPG Groothandel and Euromedica

Dutch Association for the Innovative
Pharmaceutical Industry (Nefarma)
Koninginnegracht 37
PO 11633
2502 AP The Hague, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 313-2222
Fax: (31-70) 313-2230
Internet: http://www.nefarma.nl (In Dutch)

Dutch Association of the Pharmaceutical Industry for OTC Products
(Nederlandse Vereniging van de Farmaceutische Industrie van Zelfzorggeneesmiddelen en Gezondheidsproducten [Neprofarm])
Huizermaatweg 354
1276 LK Huizen, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-35) 697-0821
Fax: (31-35) 697-0822
E-mail: info@neprofarm.nl
Internet: http://www.neprofarm.nl (In Dutch)

Dutch Association for Pharmaceutical Marketers
(Nederlandse Vereniging voor Farma Marketeers [NVFM])
Rendementsweg 24 E-I
3641 SL Mijdrecht, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-297) 281-745
Fax: (31-297) 241-401
E-mail: info@nvfm.nl
Internet: http://www.nvfm.nl (In Dutch)

Dutch Homeopathic Manufacturers' and Importers Association
(Nederlandse Associatie van Fabrikanten en Importeurs van Homeopathische, Antroposofische en Fytotherapeutische Geneesmiddelen [NEHOMA])
PO Box 30187
8003 CD Zwolle, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-38) 453-1729
Fax: (31-52) 568-5905
E-mail: info@nehoma.nl
Internet: http://www.nehoma.nl (In Dutch)

International Pharmaceutical Federation
Andries Bickerweg 5
2517 JP The Hague, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 302-1970
Fax: (31-70) 302-1999
E-mail: fip@fip.org
Internet: http://www.fip.org

Netherlands-Canadian Chamber of Commerce
Oranjestraat 4
2514 JB The Hague, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 363-4891
Fax: (31-70) 345-7835
E-mail: 1007421.2056@compserve.com

Netherlands Industrial and Agricultural Biotechnology Association (NIABA)
Vlietweg 16
2266 KA Leidschendam, Netherlands
Tel.: (70) 337-8764
Fax: (70) 337-8765
E-mail: niaba@niaba.vnci.nl
Internet: http://www.niaba.nl (In Dutch)

Netherlands Biotechnological Society
(Nederlands Biotech Vereniging)
PO Box 454
9700 AL Groningen, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-50) 522-2328
Fax: (31-31) 522-2333
E-mail: marijn.sipkema@dsm-group.com
Internet:http://www.kncv.nl/secties/nbv/nbveng.html

Dutch Research Institutes

Amsterdam-Leiden Institute for Immunology (ALIFI)
Society of Medical Biological Scientific Research
PO Box 9190
1006 AD Amsterdam, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-20) 512-3317
Fax: (31-20) 512-3310
Internet: http://www.leidenuniv.nl/interuniv/alifi

Bijvoet Centre for Biomolecular Research
(BIJVOET)
PO Box 80075
NL-3508 TB Utrecht, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-30) 533-801
Fax: (31-30) 540-980
Internet: http://www.bijvoet-center.nl

Biocentrum Amsterdam
Kruislaan 318
1098 SM Amsterdam, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-20) 525-5173
Fax: (31-20) 525-5410
E-mail: helle@bio.uva.nl
Internet: http://www.bio.uva.nl

Biotechnological Sciences, Delft Leiden
Wageningen (BODL)
Laboratory for Biotechnology
Delft University of Technology
Julianalaan 67
2628 BC Delft, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-15) 278-5140
Fax: (31-15) 278-2355
E-mail: BODL@stm.tudelft.nl

Experimental Plant Sciences (EPS)
Binnenhaven 5
6709 PD Wageningen, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-31) 748-3412
Fax: (31-31) 748-3457
E-mail: secretary@graduateschool-eps.info
Internet: http://www.graduateschool-eps.info

Food Technology, Agrobiotechnology,
Nutrition and Health Sciences (VLAG)
PO Box 8129
6700 EV Wageningen
Bomenweg 2, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-31) 748-5108
Fax: (31-31) 748-3342
E-mail: fre.pepping@staff.nutepi.wau.nl
Internet: http://www.wau.nl/vlag

Groningen Biomolecular Sciences and
Biotechnology Institute (GBB)
University of Groningen
Nijenborgh 4
9747 AG Groningen, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-50) 363-4203
Fax: (31-50) 363-4165
E-mail: gbbsec@chem.rug.nl
Internet: http://www.chem.rug.nl/gbb

Groningen-Utrecht Institute for Drug
Exploration (GUIDE)
University of Groningen
Bloemsingel 1
9713 BZ Groningen, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-50) 363-3163
Fax: (31-50) 363-2612
Internet: http://www.rug.nl/guide (In Dutch)

Interuniversity Cardiology Institute of the Netherlands (ICIN)
PO Box 19258
3501 DG Utrecht, Netherlands
Contact: M. Helmers-Kersten
Tel.: (31-30) 233-3600
Fax: (31-30) 231-5940
E-mail: info@icin.knaw.nl
Internet: http://www.icin.knaw.nl

Leiden-Amsterdam Centre for Drug Research
(LACDR)
PO Box 9502
2300 RA Leiden, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-71) 527-4341
Fax: (31-71) 527-4277
E-mail: lacdr@lacdr.leidenuniv.nl
Internet: http://wwwpharm.leidenuniv.nl

Medical Genetics Centre (MGC), South-West
Netherlands
PO Box 9503
2300 RA Leiden, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-71) 527-6153
Fax: (31-71) 522-1615
E-mail: Ferro@RULLF2.LeidenUniv.NL

Netherlands Agricultural Research Department (DLO)
PO Box 9101 6700
HB Wageningen, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-31) 747-7477
Fax: (31-31) 742-4060
E-mail: info@www.wag-ur.nl
Internet: http://www.wur.nl/nl/index.html

Netherlands Organization for Scientific
Research (Nederlandse Organisatie voor
Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek [NWO])
Laan van Nieuw Oost Indië 300
2593 CE The Hague, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 344-0640
Fax: (31-70) 385-0971
E-mail: nwo@nwo.nl
Internet: http://www.nwo.nl

European Industry Contacts

European Agency for the Evaluation of Medicinal Products
7 West Ferry Circus, Canary Wharf
London, UK E14 4HB
Tel.: (44-20) 7418-8400
Fax: (44-20) 7418-8416
E-mail: mail@emea.eu.int
Internet: http://www.emea.eu.int

European Federation of Biotechnology
c/o DECHEMA e.V.
Theodor-Heuss-Allee 25
D-60486 Frankfurt, Germany
Tel.: (49-69) 756-4221
Fax: (49-69) 756-4169
E-mail: efb@dechema.de
Internet:http://www.efbweb.org/events/biotec4c.htm

European Patent Office (EPO)
Patentlaan 2
PO Box 5818
2280 HV Rijswijk, Netherlands
Tel.: (31-70) 340-2040
Fax: (31-70) 340-1076
E-mail: epoline@epo.org
Internet: http://www.european-patent-office.org

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Print

Dun & Bradstreet. Exporters' Encyclopedia. "The Netherlands," 2002.

Espicom. World Pharmaceutical Markets. "Netherlands," October 2002.

International Business Strategies. "Biotechnology in Health Care in the Netherlands," December 2001.

World Market Analysis. Netherlands: Country Overview. "Medical Suppliers: Pharmaceuticals and

Biotechnology, Including Generic Drugs," October 22, 2002.

Electronic

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. "Biotechnology Sector Profile: The Netherlands," May 2002. Downloaded from http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/ie-en/DisplayDocument.jsp?did=8296 on January 28, 2003.

- - - . "Health Industries Sector Profile: The Netherlands," November 2002. Downloaded from http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/ie-en/DisplayDocument.jsp?did=14007 on January 28, 2003.

- - - . "Import Regulations: The Netherlands," November 2002. Downloaded from http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/ie-en/DisplayDocument.jsp?did=13836 on January 28, 2003.

- - - . "The Dutch Market for Environmental Products and Services," January 15, 2003. Downloaded from http://www.infoexport.gc.ca/ie-en/DisplayDocument.jsp?did=5373 on January 28, 2003.

Holland Biotechnology. "Agro-Food Biotechnology," April 26, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.hollandbiotechnology.nl/companies/
agrofood/home.html on January 28, 2003.

- - - . "Fine Chemicals," May 1, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.hollandbiotechnology.nl/companies/
finechemicals/body.html on January 28, 2003.

- - - . "Environment," May 8, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.hollandbiotechnology.nl/companies/
environment/home.html on January 28, 2003.

- - - . "Plant Breeding," May 9, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.hollandbiotechnology.nl/companies/
plant/body.html on January 28, 2003.

- - - . "Human and Animal Health Care," July 9, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.hollandbiotechnology.nl/companies/
human/body.html on January 28, 2003.

Just-Food.com. "GM Ingredients: How Will Europeans Feel in 2005?" October 17, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.just-food.com/news_print.asp?art=43838 on January 28, 2003.

- - - . "Netherlands: Avebe Granted Licence for GM Field Trials," December 17, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.just-food.com/news_print.asp?art=52660 on January 28, 2003.

Netherlands Foreign Investment Agency. "Biotech in the Netherlands," 2002. Downloaded from http://usa.nfia.nl/index.php?page=/solutions/biotech.php on January 31, 2003.

OECD. "Regulatory Developments in Biotechnology in the Netherlands," December 21, 2001. Downloaded from http://www.oecd.org/oecd/pages/home/displaygeneral/
0,3380,EN-document-0-nodirectorate-CH-27-27413-0,00.html on February 3, 2003.

Pharmacos. "The Netherlands: Pharmaceutical Pricing and Reimbursement Policies," 2002. Downloaded from http://pharmacos.eudra.org/F3/g10/docs/tse/Netherlands.pdf on January 29, 2003.

Trade Partners UK. "Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals Market in the Netherlands: Opportunities," 2002. Downloaded from http://www.tradepartners.gov.uk/biotechnology/
netherlands/opportunities/opportunities.shtml on January 28, 2003.

- - - . "Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals Market in the Netherlands: Overview," 2002. Downloaded from http://www.tradepartners.gov.uk/biotechnology/
netherlands/profile/overview.shtml on January 28, 2003.

Trade Team Canada Bio-Industries. "TTC-BIO031 Newsletter," April 2, 2002. Downloaded from http://strategis.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/
inbio.nsf/vwGeneratedInterE/bj01910e.html on January 28, 2002.

- - - . "Canada's Biotechnology Industry," December 20, 2002. Downloaded from http://ttcbio.ic.gc.ca/epic/internet/inbio.nsf/
vwGeneratedInterE/h_bj01860e.html on January 28, 2002.

United States Department of State. "World Factbook 2002. The Netherlands," 2002. Downloaded from http://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/geos/nl.html on January 28. 2003.

OTHER REFERENCE MATERIAL

Useful Internet Sites

BioExchange: http://www.bioexchange.com/index.cfm

Biotechnology Regulatory Assistance Virtual Office (BRAVO): http://www.bravo.ic.gc.ca/biotech/main.htm

CanadaEuropa: http://www.dfait-maeci.gc.ca/canadaeuropa

EuropaBio: http://www.europabio.org/pages/index.asp

European Patent Office: http://www.european-patent-office.org

ExportSource: http://exportsource.gc.ca

Health Canada: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca

Holland Biotechnology: http://www.hollandbiotechnology.nl

Industry Canada: http://strategis.gc.ca

InfoExport: http://www.infoexport.gc.ca

Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport: http://www.minvws.nl/english/index.html?folder=3

Netherlands Medicines Evaluation Board: http://www.cbg-meb.nl

Netherlands Foreign Trade Agency Internet: http://www.hollandtrade.com

Official Journal of the European Union: http://europa.eu.int/eur-lex/en/oj/index.html

Scrip World Pharmaceutical News: http://www.pjbpubs.com/scrip

Tenders Electronic Daily: http://ted.publications.eu.int

Theta Reports: http://www.thetareports.co.uk

1 All monetary amounts are expressed in Canadian dollars, unless otherwise indicated. The conversion rate to Canadian dollars is based on IDD Information Services, Tradeline, February 2003.

2 For contact information regarding key organizations mentioned in this report, see Key Contacts and Support Services.

Date Modified: 2004-05-19

Important Notices