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PUERTO RICO – A BIO ISLAND

In his keynote address to the Caribbean and Latin American Biotechnology Congress on September 22, 2006, Governor Aníbal Acevedo Vilá presented the concept of Puerto Rico as a Bio Island and its importance for the Island’s economic development: “Discovery in biotechnology, here on Bio Island, will allow us to solve serious problems in new ways. We will use science to make our lives better, healthier and safer. And in the process, we will change our communities – creating better jobs and more opportunities for economic advancement and entrepreneurship.”

Puerto Rico’s unique advantages and proven benefits have made us an ideal place for business. We are confident that the groundwork laid by our successes in the life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical device manufacturing and engineering will move us to the forefront of the global biotechnology sector.


Governor Acevedo Vilá expressed his “vision for the future of Puerto Rico in which our Island takes a position of leadership in this industry. Our economic development goals are tied to partnerships and coordination with the leading biotechnology corporations of the world.” He also stressed that our growing intellectual capital will drive science forward.

The advancements in labs, at major universities and in the field are prompting exciting conversations about “what’s next.” According to the Governor, “now is the ideal time to include Puerto Rico at the center of those discussions.”

As a Bio Island, Puerto Rico is creating a critical mass of scientific minds. With initiatives such as the Knowledge Corridor, the impact of Puerto Rico’s commitment to science, research, and development cannot be overstated.