LAVAL, Quebec–(BUSINESS WIRE)–BIOQuébec, the association representing the life sciences and health technologies (LSHT) industry, notes that the government is exercising caution by maintaining its direction for these strategic sectors.
The 2026–2027 budget is in line with the priorities established by the Quebec Life Sciences Strategy as well as the Quebec Research and Innovation Investment Strategy, thereby confirming the central role of these sectors in Quebec’s economic development.
The government also reiterates its intention to renew the Government Strategy for Public Procurement next spring. BIOQuébec intends to fully collaborate in its rollout in order to promote quality and value—rather than the lowest compliant price—in contract awarding, and to encourage dialogue between public bodies and the business community.
However, the association remains vigilant regarding the impacts of the refundable tax credit for research, innovation and commercialization (CRIC), announced in the 2025–2026 budget. BIOQuébec would have liked its concerns to be more fully taken into account, particularly with respect to the adverse effects on innovative SMEs and collaborative research. It is worth noting that the LSHT sector represents 15.7% of business expenditures in research and development in Quebec—nearly three times that of the aerospace sector.
“In this pivotal political year and in a turbulent geopolitical context, the government must preserve its direction in innovation and in strategic sectors such as life sciences and health technologies. This budget, at the very least, maintains the course,” said Benoît Larose, President and CEO of BIOQuébec.
BIOQuébec is a non-profit association fully funded by its members. It currently brings together more than 340 companies and organizations active in Quebec’s life sciences and health technologies industry. Its members operate at every stage of the health innovation chain and directly contribute to improving the quality of life of the population. Their activities include the discovery of drugs, vaccines, diagnostic tools, and medical technologies (equipment and supplies), as well as their development, manufacturing, and commercialization. BIOQuébec acts as the voice of the industry, fosters networking and economic development, and ensures a strategic link between the private sector and all stakeholders.
Contacts
Information
Jeannine Burkhard
Head, Public Affairs and Stakeholder Relations
jburkhard@bioquebec.com
