From ambitions to action - Denmark has set its sights on becoming a global leader in the development and implementation of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs).
From ambitions to action - Denmark has set its sights on becoming a global leader in the development and implementation of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs).

Insight

The Danish prescription for tomorrow’s therapies

Insight

The Danish prescription for tomorrow’s therapies

From ambitions to action - Denmark has set its sights on becoming a global leader in the development and implementation of Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs). 

When

ATMPs - covering gene therapies, somatic cell therapies, and tissue-engineered medicines - have the potential to revolutionise treatment for patients facing rare, serious, or chronic diseases. These therapies, far beyond conventional medicines, represent technologies with the potential to transform treatment outcomes for patients with serious and rare diseases. Although, we are still in the early phases, Denmark is already stepping up to the plate with serious intent, strategic investment, and cross-sector collaboration.

Denmark’s Triple-Helix Advantage: Research, Industry, and Government in Sync

So, what makes Denmark such fertile ground for ATMPs to flourish?

Start with a life science sector that punches well above its weight. Add in world-renowned hospitals, the Danish National Genome Center, and a track record of close cooperation between academia, business, and government. The result? A robust ecosystem preparing to support the full lifecycle of advanced therapies - from discovery and development to clinical application and patient benefit.
 
In late 2024, the Danish government took a big step forward with the launch of ATMP Denmark – a national collaborative initiative outlined in the new life science strategy: Strategy for life science toward 2030. The ATMP Denmark aims to accelerate the journey from research to patient care by: 

  • Strengthening the framework conditions for clinical research in ATMPs.
  • Creating a unified entry point for knowledge and collaboration between universities, industry, and authorities to promote the development and implementation of ATMPs in Denmark. 
  • Supporting the implementation across hospitals and healthcare systems.

The effort underscores Denmark’s determination not just to follow international trends, but to actively lead the advancement of life-changing therapies.

 

Strong momentum for ATMP and substantial growth potential

A recent report (in Danish) from the Danish Medicines Council highlights the strong momentum for ATMP in Denmark – over 75% of ATMPs assessed have been recommended for use in Denmark’s healthcare system. Compared to the neighbouring countries like Sweden, and Norway, Denmark is now ahead, reversing earlier trends where Denmark lagged behind.

An April 2025 analysis on ATMPs (in Danish) by Lif - the Danish Association of the Pharmaceutical Industry also pointed to the same positive trend.

 

"This is a very positive development. Advanced therapies represent a breakthrough in the treatment of several serious diseases, offering patients new opportunities for treatment—or even cure. Therefore, it is crucial that we maintain momentum and continue working towards fast and smooth access to ATMPs. This is an area where we truly have the opportunity to be first movers, particularly given the strong willingness to collaborate from the public sector." 

Ida Sofie Jensen

CEO of Lif

Patient first, innovations always

The Strategy for life science towards 2030 makes it clear: patients must have fast access to cutting-edge treatments. With this commitment, the strategy aims to create optimal conditions for innovation to thrive – and the ambition isn’t just to innovate but to implement - bridging the gap between science and the bedside. This is where Denmark’s integrated life science ecosystem really shines, with seamless collaboration between hospitals, universities, biotech start-ups, and global pharma.

Whether you're a company looking to expand your R&D footprint or bring next-gen therapies to market in Europe, Denmark offers a unique launchpad - agile, ambitious, and always patient-centred.

Get in touch

Want to tap into the future of advanced therapies in Denmark?

Now is the time to tap into the momentum and be part of a healthcare transformation that’s built on science, fuelled by collaboration, and driven by patient outcomes. We provide free-of-charge confidential and tailor-made solutions for foreign companies looking to set up a new business in Denmark or expand an existing one. Please contact one of our experts here:

Copenhagen

  • Sarina Lohmann

    Title: Special Advisor – Maritime and transport – Analysis & Partnerships

    Area: Copenhagen

    Phone: +4533920423

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