Industrial Biotechnology Dialogue: Working Together for a Competitive Bio-Industry "Made in Germany"

With a focus on industrial biotechnology, the dialogues (Partnerdialoge) on biotechnology as a key technology continued: on 23 February 2026, around 60 representatives from industry, academia, associations and politics gathered at the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR). The aim: to jointly develop concrete milestones to position Germany as a technology leader in the field of modern industrial biotechnology and to increase bio-based value creation within a competitive, resource-efficient industry.

Leveraging strengths – securing technological leadership

Following a welcome address by State Secretary Dr. Rolf-Dieter Jungk, the participants discussed key requirements and potential in this forward-looking technological field. It became clear that Germany possesses outstanding scientific and technical expertise within industrial biotechnology. In particular, the globally recognised strengths in the fields of bioprocess engineering and bioengineering offer great potential for securing a successful long-term position in international competition. The aim is to capitalise on these strengths and consistently translate excellent research results into innovations.

State Secretary Dr Rolf-Dieter Jungk (Photo credit: Projektträger Jülich, Thomas Nachreiner) 

Strengthening industrial research – accelerating innovation

Two breakout sessions explored in depth how the gap between research and application can be bridged and the innovation process accelerated. The focus was on approaches to strengthen industrial research and development through close collaboration between public funding and private investment. And ideas on how to make more efficient use of research infrastructures and pilot plants and improve accessibility, particularly for businesses.

The outcomes of the dialogue (Partnerdialog) provided important impetus for the further development of the High-Tech Agenda Germany technology Roadmap for Biotechnology and laid the foundations for joint implementation by industry, academia, associations and policymakers.