Africa is at a turning point. With 18% of the global population but less than 2% of all clinical trials conducted on the continent [1], the need to build a resilient, African-led life sciences ecosystem has never been more urgent. While Africa’s path will be unique, the journeys of South Korea and China offer valuable lessons that can inform strategy, investment, and long-term planning.
These countries have built competitive life sciences sectors by focusing on government commitment, strategic talent development, global collaboration grounded in local needs, and patient ecosystem building. The African continent can draw from these pillars—adapting and applying them to fit regional priorities and public health needs.
Strategic Government-Led Investment & Vision
South Korea’s progress is closely tied to government leadership. The Seoul Vision 2030 Fund—a US$4 billion initiative—prioritizes innovation in biotechnology and artificial intelligence (AI), with a focus on supporting emerging startups [2]. Meanwhile, China has made biotechnology a national strategic priority, investing US$36.9 billion in the first quarter of 2025 alone [3].
For Africa, increasing public sector investment is key. The Africa Clinical Research Network (ACRN) has emphasized the role of government in setting quality standards, strengthening regulatory systems, and supporting local research capacity. As ACRN’s founding director Dr. Tariro Makadzange notes, “If we want a different outcome over the next 20 to 30 years, Africa must integrate new efforts into existing health systems, strengthen quality standards, and—most importantly—ensure that Africa takes a place in the global scientific community.”[1]
Talent Development & Research Infrastructure
Both China and South Korea have invested heavily in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. These efforts, paired with the development of advanced laboratories and research hubs, have fueled local innovation and scientific productivity [4].
Africa can take similar steps by expanding specialized training programs, upgrading research infrastructure, and strengthening academic-industry partnerships. Institutions across the continent—including universities, regulators, and networks like ACRN—are already advancing this agenda. Building a pipeline of skilled researchers, clinical trial professionals, and regulatory experts is critical for long-term ecosystem growth.
Global Collaboration Anchored in Local Relevance
South Korea and China have leveraged global partnerships while tailoring solutions to national priorities. For instance, South Korea’s biologics manufacturing and AI integration are embedded within its local health system [5].
Africa must also engage internationally—but from a position of strength and clarity. Partnerships should accelerate innovation without displacing regional priorities. African-led platforms can ensure that clinical research focuses on diseases with the greatest local burden—such as hypertension, diabetes, and infectious diseases—while upholding scientific rigor and ethical standards. This approach helps build trust and strengthens research relevance.
Ecosystem Building Takes Time – but Pays Off
China’s rise in biotechnology is the result of decades of coordinated policy, investment, and institutional collaboration [6]. There is no shortcut to ecosystem maturity.
For Africa, this means sustained investment in regulatory harmonization, ethical review frameworks, and continent-wide infrastructure. Foundations like ACRN are helping create conditions not only to host trials, but to develop Africa’s own therapies, diagnostics, and data systems.
Final Thought
South Korea and China demonstrate that long-term vision, investment, and coordination can transform a country’s scientific landscape. Africa is ready to do the same—but the blueprint must be grounded in African leadership, public health needs, and collaborative strength.
At ACRN, we believe this transformation is already underway. But realizing it at scale will require committed partnerships between African governments, funders, institutions, and communities—alongside strategic global engagement.
References
- Advancing Africa’s Competitiveness in Clinical Research [Internet]. [cited 2025 Aug 14]. Available from: https://acrnhealth.com/2025/02/19/breaking-the-cycle-advancing-africas-competitiveness-in-global-clinical-research-during-a-period-of-rapid-change/
- Seoul to Invest ₩30 Bn. for First Round of Seoul Vision 2030 Fund This Year, Including AX – Seoul Metropolitan Government [Internet]. [cited 2025 Aug 14]. Available from: https://english.seoul.go.kr/seoul-to-invest-%e2%82%a930-bn-for-first-round-of-seoul-vision-2030-fund-this-year-including-ax/
- Mun-hee C. Businesskorea. 2025 [cited 2025 Aug 14]. China’s Biotech Sector Surges Ahead, Leaving South Korea Behind in Global Market. Available from: https://www.businesskorea.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=240319
- pharmaphorum [Internet]. 2023 [cited 2025 Aug 14]. South Korea: Emerging global leader in life sciences. Available from: https://pharmaphorum.com/market-access/south-korea-emerging-global-leader-life-sciences
- AI Transforming South Korea’s Healthcare: Innovations and Opportunities [Internet]. [cited 2025 Aug 14]. Available from: https://www.qualtechs.com/en-gb/article/ai-healthcare-innovations-south-korea
- Foundation OR. Evolution Of China’s Biotech Industry: Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon – Analysis [Internet]. Eurasia Review. 2025 [cited 2025 Aug 14]. Available from: https://www.eurasiareview.com/26062025-evolution-of-chinas-biotech-industry-crouching-tiger-hidden-dragon-analysis/