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20 January 2026

Life Sciences Index 2026

An industry in transition

Welcome to the second edition of the Life Sciences Index, a study tracking perceptions of innovation and growth in the life sciences industry.

We surveyed over 200 leaders from the world’s largest biopharma and medtech companies to gather insights across six chapters: Fostering Innovation and Growth, Business Modes, Dealmaking, Sustainability, Intelligent Technology, and the Future of Care Delivery, along with two spotlights covering Regulation and Product Liability Litigation.

The result is a comprehensive report that reveals how innovation and growth priorities have changed over the past two years.

 

Key findings from the 2026 Index
  • The Life Sciences Index Score for 2026 – a measure of the industry’s global attractiveness – is 71%, down 5% on the 2024 score
  • Global market sector attractiveness shifts: US down 7%, China narrows gap, Middle East up 8%
  • Dealmaking is the biggest driver of innovation and growth
  • Tariffs are pushing businesses to rethink R&D and manufacturing investments
  • ESG falls down the list of priorities
  • AI adoption is accelerating across business functions
  • Decentralised, patient-centric care will surge

Download the Index to help you anticipate market shifts, identify opportunities, and adapt strategies for resilience and growth.

Available Chapters

Life sciences faces a crossroads: external pressures and internal challenges demand agility, collaboration, and innovation as old models fail amid rapid regulatory, technological, and cost shifts.

Marco de Morpurgo, Global Co-Chair of Life Sciences

Key contacts

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