With 472 exhibitors attending from 17 European countries, Expopharm has once again proved itself as the biggest trade fair in Europe for the pharmaceuticals industry. More than 25,000 visitors travelled to Düsseldorf this year meaning that, in spite of economic climate, visitor numbers grew in comparison to 2008.

The venue for this important annual exhibition is no coincidence: Germany is the largest market for pharmaceutical products with a turnover of some €38 million in 2008 alone. As the event was not only attended by pharmaceuticals companies, but also by service and IT systems providers, The Translation People had the opportunity to network with attendees and representatives from a variety of organisations. “The European Court of Justice ruling in May this year that EU member states can legislate on the ownership of pharmacies demonstrates a clear commitment to owner run pharmacies and as a result the general mood was very positive” says The Translation People’s Jasmin Schneider. As such, the event was well timed explains Jasmin further: “Many pharmacists have been waiting for the ruling before taking decisions regarding new investments.”

Opportunities for growth can be seen in particular in the Brazilian, Russian, Indian and Chinese markets. “The effect of globalization on the pharmaceuticals industry means that it is becoming increasingly important for organisations to work closely with a professional translation agency” says Jasmin. “There are, for example, more than 400 Indian languages, so it can be confusing to know which to use. The Translation People are well placed to advise on which is most suitable for your target audience.”