Executive Summary

Europe faces a critical moment in industrial policy as biomanufacturing emerges as a transformative technology capable of reshaping economies and geopolitical power. With China investing heavily in this sector, European policymakers must act urgently to secure leadership, protect intellectual property, and build infrastructure to ensure competitiveness in the global bioeconomy.

Historical Context: The Rise of Biomanufacturing

For centuries, industrial revolutions have been driven by the exploitation of natural resources, from coal to oil. Today, biomanufacturing offers a paradigm shift by using biological processes to produce essential goods like food, fuels, and chemicals. This technology, powered by advances in artificial intelligence and renewable energy, has the potential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and reshape global economic systems.

China has recognized this opportunity, investing billions in biomanufacturing research and development. Its strategic focus mirrors past successes in electric vehicles and solar panels, where state-backed investments propelled China to global dominance. Europe, while leading in scientific innovation and patents, risks losing its competitive edge due to regulatory delays and reliance on Chinese manufacturing capacity.

Policy Motivations: Why Europe Must Act

China’s aggressive investment in biomanufacturing reflects its broader strategy of industrial self-reliance and geopolitical leverage. By scaling fermentation capacity and developing flagship biomanufacturing products, China aims to dominate the bioeconomy, much like it has in rare-earth refining and chip manufacturing. This dominance could create strategic chokepoints, influencing global access to essential goods.

Europe’s strengths lie in its world-class research institutions, skilled workforce, and thriving biosolutions sector worth €60 billion. However, these advantages are undermined by limited infrastructure and a lack of urgency in policymaking. European start-ups are increasingly tempted to manufacture in China, exposing intellectual property to competitive risks.

Policymakers must view biomanufacturing not as a niche sustainability issue but as a foundational technology capable of reshaping economies. Strategic investments in infrastructure, streamlined regulations, and intellectual property protections are essential to prevent Europe from repeating past mistakes in solar panels and electric vehicles.

Impact on Migrants

Europe stands at a crossroads in the race for biomanufacturing leadership. By investing strategically and acting decisively, it can secure its position as a global leader in this transformative technology. The stakes are high—not just for economic competitiveness but for the future of sustainable development and social inclusion.