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UK-BW: Opportunities and challenges for the healthcare industry
As part of the United Kingdom - Baden-Württemberg (UK-BW) partnership initiative, which was launched in 2020 by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Economic Affairs, Labor and Tourism, the British Consulate General and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), the aim is to strengthen networking and establish cooperation between economic regions. BIOPRO Baden-Württemberg supports this initiative with topics from the healthcare industry.
Baden-Württemberg (BW) and the United Kingdom (UK) are exceptionally well positioned in the healthcare industries -biotechnology, medical technology and pharmaceuticals - with strong clusters, innovative companies and applied research institutes.
In addition to traditional business relationships, there are numerous opportunities for collaboration on joint research and development projects.
Market access for medical devices in Great Britain
Since Brexit, the UK has had its own regulatory requirements. Medical devices must be registered with the MHRA before being placed on the market. Manufacturers without a UK establishment must appoint a UK Responsible Person.¹
On 21st of October 2026, the UK government confirmed that it would continue to recognise CE-marked medical devices and in vitro diagnostic devices indefinitely. The UKCA marking remains a separate route to market.²
The previously anticipated July 2024 introduction of the overall regulatory framework is no longer current: the changes are being implemented in stages. Stricter post-market surveillance requirements have been in force since 16th of June 2025.³
Greener NHS – sustainability initiative of England’s National Health Service
NHS England aims to achieve net zero for its direct emissions by 2040 and for emissions from its supply chain by 2045. According to its progress report, direct emissions in 2024/25 were 68 percent lower than in 1990.⁴
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for suppliers: net-zero and social value criteria carry a weighting of at least 10 percent in NHS procurement. From April 2027, suppliers will also be required to publish global emissions data and carbon reduction plans.⁵
The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is a pioneer in sustainability. Through its “Greener NHS” initiative, it has set ambitious plans to achieve a climate-neutral health service. These goals have significant implications for the market for medical technology and pharmaceutical products in the UK and are increasingly influencing NHS procurement decisions.
BIOPRO supports businesses by providing information through articles and by organising information and networking events. These offer opportunities to exchange knowledge and build new relationships with stakeholders in the United Kingdom.
Press Release from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Tourism of the state of Baden-Württemberg
Brexit has taken effect. As of January 1, 2021, the United Kingdom left the European single market and the customs union. The trade and cooperation agreement, which has been provisionally in force since then, allows trade to continue under new conditions. Given the close economic ties between United Kingdom and Baden-Württemberg, the state government is committed to ensuring as smooth a transition as possible and to building a close, long-term economic partnership that extends beyond Brexit. Through the Brexit contact point and partnership initiative, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Tourism Baden-Württemberg provides businesses and employees with advice and support on all related matters.
