##  [Biotech Act](/about/novartis-and-european-union/biotech-act "Biotech Act")

 The EU **Biotech Act** is an important opportunity to strengthen Europe’s life sciences ecosystem at a time of intense global competition for research, investment and talent. Biotechnology is transforming healthcare, powering advanced therapies, precision medicine and next-generation treatments for complex diseases.

A strong and ambitious Biotech Act could help strengthen Europe’s position in biomedical innovation, accelerate clinical research and help healthcare systems prepare for scientific advances.

**Novartis advocates for a strong Biotech Act that:**

- Applies a consistent and future-proof definition of biotechnology
- Improves patient access to cutting-edge treatments
- Strengthens Europe’s global competitiveness in life sciences
- Preserves and fully implements ambitious clinical trial reforms
- Attracts investment in research, development and advanced manufacturing
- Supports strong intellectual property protection, including a minimum 12-month Supplementary Protection Certificate extension for biotechnology and advanced therapies

### **Why the Biotech Act matters**