KEY POINTS:
NZBio's annual biotechnology conference kicks off in Auckland today, with the aim of reflecting the role of the sector in addressing many of the world's problems.
The three-day event is entitled, "Enterprising Technologies - Global Benefits".
"I think the inherent meaning in that is essentially that innovations in biotechnology are really kind of stepping up to the forefront and providing the means to overcoming quite a lot of global challenges," NZBio chief executive Bronwyn Dilley said.
Challenges included countering the impact of an aging population with new diagnostics and treatments, improved agricultural processes and sustainability of land use.
"All those improvements come out of biotechnology research and development."
The global profile of the biotechnology sector was coming to the forefront, she said.
"Especially in the biomedical area ... but also around biofuels. That's exemplified by Virgin Atlantic doing a biofuel flight not too long ago."
New Zealand had shown it had world-class capabilities and the sector was growing at a steady rate, she said.
"It's quite a diverse industry here, it spans the human health, agricultural and industrial biotechnology applications.
"I think the important thing is to ensure that there's enough basic science and opportunities in the pipeline to ensure that the industry continues to grow."
More than 500 people are expected to attend the conference at the SkyCity Convention Centre. The event features exhibitions, partnering forums and discussion panels.
Visitors include delegations from Canada and the UK.
Diley said: "Of course the networks that are made at these conference go on to form a basis of long-term relationships which may not underpin just one deal, they might underpin several over the next several years." Dilley took over as chief executive of industry body NZBio four weeks ago, after working for five years in the biotechnology sector in Australia.
"I guess my focuses have been on strategic marketing and building awareness of capabilities on the international market and business development."
