Andrew Powaleny Andrew Powaleny
April 30, 2025

The biopharmaceutical industry is one of the highest contributors to America’s economy among all manufacturers

America’s biopharmaceutical companies are committed to revitalizing American manufacturing, and they continue expanding their U.S. footprint. Supporting nearly five million jobs and more than 1,500 facilities across the U.S., we’re making investments that help develop new treatments and cures and contribute to America’s economy.

According to a new study from NDP Analytics, the biopharmaceutical industry contributes more to America’s economy per employee than most other manufacturing industries. Specifically, the industry contributed more wages, exports, output and GDP per employee annually from 2012-2022 than the average of all other industries.

The new report explains that intellectual property (IP) is foundational to a productive modern economy and a crucial factor in sustaining American competitiveness. America’s competitive advantage is innovation, and IP protections, especially patents, are vital for investments in high-risk projects like biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing.

Economic Performance Per Employee, Manufacturing Sector, 2012-2022 Average

The new report compares the economic performance of U.S. industries according to R&D investment and the patented inventions resulting from that investment. The report shows that industries which patent more and invest more in patent-protected R&D have greater contributions to the U.S. economy through higher wages, exports, output and GDP.

The data is clear, and the facts matter. The biopharmaceutical industry is investing, innovating and driving progress that is benefitting both patients and the American economy. 

We will continue working with the administration to protect and strengthen our innovation ecosystem so the U.S. can continue to lead the world in the development of new medicines. View the report and more here.