News

Press Release

Athens, 19 May 2025.- On the occasion of International Clinical Trials Day (20 May), the Hellenic Association of Pharmaceutical Companies (SFEE) highlights the important role of clinical trials in advancing public health. This year’s theme, “Collaborate. Innovate. Advance.”, underscores the power of collective effort among all stakeholders and the transformative potential of innovation on the path to progress, all for the benefit of patients. Together, we can shape the future of clinical research by expanding scientific knowledge and driving innovation. Clinical trials primarily benefit patients by providing them with free access to breakthrough treatments that are not yet publicly available.

Clinical trials are a key lever for the progress of science and the development of our country’s economy. In addition to accessing innovative treatments, participants have access to laboratory and diagnostic tests, as well as the opportunity to participate in decisions that concern themselves and the management of their disease. Clinical trials also contribute significantly to the National Health System, for example, the participation of a patient in a clinical trial with gene therapy for cancer saves the State 70,000 euros/year!

However, there is a lag in the number of clinical trials in Greece compared to other European countries. More than €47 billion is invested annually in Europe in Research and Development, with Greece attracting only about €100 million.

The Hellenic Association of Pharmaceutical Companies (SFEE), in collaboration with the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Companies and Associations (EFPIA), as well as other stakeholders, is trying to reverse this trend and highlight our country as an attractive and highly competitive hub for Research and Development, with a leading role in clinical research in Southeast Europe.

SFEE’s proposal to strengthen the clinical trial ecosystem was and remains the reduction of bureaucracy and simplification of procedures, the reduction of preparation time in view of the start of a clinical trial and finding ways to inform and attract candidate participants using digital technology. The active participation and support of the Ministry of Health is essential in any case.

Our message to the Greek State is clear: we are committed to promoting faster, smarter and more patient-centered trials, but we need more incentives to attract investment to increase the number of Clinical Trials and patient participants in Greece. Our country has the highest level of scientific potential and the staff participating in Clinical Trials have the opportunity to significantly improve their skills and knowledge about each disease. At the same time, clinical trials are a way to bring back to Greece the scientists who left abroad during the last fifteen years (brain gain).

The General Manager of SFEE, Mr. Michael Himonas stated: “Clinical Trials are essential for the development of new life-changing therapies and vaccines for patients. At SFEE we are in constant communication and constructive discussion with the Authorities (Ministry of Health, EOF, etc.) and it has already been agreed to expand the incentive framework in order to attract more clinical trials, considering that the environment is very competitive and all countries are trying to increase investments in clinical trials. The State is proceeding with the institutionalization of simpler procedures that expedite the approval of clinical trials and, also, the opening of a clinical trials office in large hospitals, actions that will significantly contribute to the effort for Greece to acquire a leading role in Europe in the field of Clinical Research.»