The 2024 life sciences sector in France shows sustained growth, with 2,429 companies operating across biotech, pharma, medtech, and digital health. The biotech industry, a key subset, continues its expansion, particularly in therapeutics and diagnostics, with 295 companies specializing in these areas and engaging in 532 key activities.
From a clinical development perspective, oncology, infectiology/parasitology, and neurology remain the top therapeutic focus areas. The biotech pipeline is strong, with assets spread across preclinical, Phase I, Phase II, and Phase III stages.
Venture financing and M&A activity in 2024 were robust, with major private equity rounds supporting biotech firms. However, no new life science IPOs were recorded for French companies in 2023 or 2024, highlighting a possible challenge in public market exits.
Comparatively, France maintains a strong life sciences presence within Europe, alongside countries like Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands. The country’s biotech sector per capita is competitive, though opportunities remain for further investment and innovation.
Overall, France’s biotech ecosystem remains dynamic, with a healthy mix of startups, private equity investments, and ongoing clinical developments, positioning it as a key player in the European life sciences landscape.
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