The Federation of Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FAPCCI) together with All-India Biotech Association (AIBA), Southern Chapter, is holding a three-day international event --Biotech Invest 2003: Global Meet on Strategic Alliances and Business Opportunities - from January 31 to February 2003 in Hyderabad. The meeting, to be held at Hotel ITC Kakatiya Sheraton, will include an interaction session in biotechnology research and development with industry participants.

According to a statement issued by the organisers, half-a-day would be devoted to a discussion on 'Vitamin D Analogs in drug development'. Dr Satya Reddy, Department of Pediatrics, Women & Infants Hospital, Providence, Rodes Island, USA will coordinate the meeting. Eminent people from the US and Europe are likely to attend the three-day session and present papers.

The focus of the meeting would be investment opportunities in the biopharmaceutical industry in India, especially Andhra Pradesh. It will interact and discuss on various issues related to business opportunities in the biopharmaceutical industry. The conference will draw the attention of the entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and financial institutions to invest in the sector.

The various sessions include Entrepreneurship in Biotechnology - opportunities ahead; Financial options in biotechnology - venture capital funding in biotech industry, risks and returns; Product process development in biotechnology provide a platform for business professionals, scientists and new entrepreneurs - critical issues; Contract research and clinical trials opportunities; role of bioinformatics in drug development and Policies and legislation in biotechnology and IPR issues. The registration charge for members of FAPCCI and AIBA is Rs 3,000 and Rs 4,000 for non-members.