Life sciences

Ireland is a global centre for life sciences. In fact, it is one of the top three global exporters of pharmaceutical products in the world. Significant investments are made in pharma, biotechnology, medical devices and diagnostic operations on a country-wide basis.

Dublin itself has a proven track record for nurturing its world-leading science, engineering and health sectors. That’s because our pool of well-educated STEM professionals attracts the world’s most cutting-edge multinationals. Links with local universities also helps boosts investment in R&D. As a result, our exports in this sector are worth a phenomenal €80 billion each year.

What companies have invested in Ireland?

  • At least 9 of the world’s top pharma companies
  • 8 of the world’s 10 largest medical device companies, according to Enterprise Ireland
  • 6 of the top 7 diagnostics companies are here too

Why businesses in the life sciences sector choose Dublin

Businesses of every type choose Dublin for its colourful culture and business-friendly tax incentives. But for companies in health, pharma and other life sciences, there’s many more reasons to set up shop in the city.

  • A skilled workforce of young and highly educated professionals is readily available
  • Ireland has a great reputation for compliance with regulatory agencies like the FDA and the EMA
  • Dublin has a reputation for cooperation between industry, universities and research centres
  • The city is home to a rich medtech startup ecosystem
  • The state strategically invests in clinical and academic research through the likes of SSPC and the NIBRT

These are just some of the aspects which draw investment in Dublin from the life sciences sector. Recent investments have been made by international companies like Pfizer, Takeda and Medtronic.

Large businesses in this sector

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