In 2007, the global pharma industry grew to 700 bn USD in sales from 365bn USD in 2000. This corresponds to an annual growth rate of 10%.
On a regional basis, the most dynamic development occurred in emerging markets with pharmaceutical sales in Asia (Japan excluded), Eastern Europe and Latin America achieving double digit growth rates in 2007. Factors driving the stronger growth in the emerging markets included robust economic growth and improved availability of services and products.
Growth in the developed countries is mainly driven by the launch of new and innovative products. Thus, the sales of drugs for autoimmune diseases rose by over 20%, and cancer therapies over 16%.