On Monday morning, San Diego, California, basked in tranquility. Joggers leisurely made their way along the oceanfront paths, while early birds filled coastal cafes, savoring their morning brew.
The scene near the San Diego Convention Center, however, painted a different picture. A sea of badge-wearing attendees converged on the BIO International Convention 2026 (Bio 2026) venue. In stark contrast to the city’s laid-back coastal vibe, the convention center buzzed with intense negotiations shaping the future of the global biotech industry.
Launching today, Bio USA, organized by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), stands as the world’s largest biotech gathering. This year’s theme, Driven By Purpose, is expected to draw over 20,000 participants from global pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, investment groups, and research institutions. It’s no wonder the event is often dubbed the Olympics of Biotech.
While California is currently caught up in World Cup fever, the excitement for Bio USA is palpable. Just yesterday, upon arrival at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), a reporter breezed through customs after mentioning their attendance at the San Diego event.
This year’s spotlight is on companies that blend artificial intelligence (AI) with contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) capabilities. Samsung Biologics is a prime example.
Since its inception in 2011, Samsung Biologics has been the sole Korean company to maintain a standalone booth for 14 consecutive years, showcasing its world-class CDMO prowess. This year, they’ve secured a prime 1,500-square-foot space, aiming to boost their order book through innovative displays and events.
Arriving in San Diego, the event’s presence was unmistakable, with Samsung Biologics banners dotting the coastline for miles.
Other industry heavyweights like Celltrion and SK Biopharm have also made the trans-Pacific journey to San Diego, seeking potential partnerships.
Their expressions betray an eagerness for new investments, technological breakthroughs, and drug development milestones.
A Korean biotech insider at the event remarked that while the biotech calendar is packed with conferences, Bio USA stands head and shoulders above the rest. It’s here to reaffirm Korea’s biotech prowess and explore global partnerships and tech transfer opportunities. It has come well-prepared.
Recently, the global biotech landscape has been reshaped by supply chain restructuring, merger and acquisition (M&A) activity, and AI-driven drug development. Bio USA has evolved beyond a mere tech showcase into a crucial forum for survival strategies in this rapidly changing industry.
Of particular interest is the supply chain reshuffling triggered by U.S.-China tensions. With anticipated shifts across the entire value chain – from raw materials to production facilities and CDMO strategies – companies are scrambling to forge new alliances.
Meanwhile, the Korea Bio Association continues its 23-year tradition of supporting domestic companies’ global ambitions through the Korea Pavilion.
The pavilion hosts 51 Korean entities, with 29 set to showcase their drug pipelines, cutting-edge platforms, and research and development (R&D) achievements on the open stage.
The Korea Night event, co-hosted by key industry bodies, will bring together global pharma executives, investors, and biotech leaders to explore collaborative opportunities.
An industry veteran noted that Korean companies have evolved from mere tech exporters to sought-after development and production partners. This year’s event will highlight K-Bio’s ascent in the global value chain.
