20th May 2026
MediWales welcomes strengthened MHRA engagement with Wales’ life sciences sector
MediWales welcomes the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency’s (MHRA) announcement of increased engagement and partnership activity in Wales, recognising the importance of closer collaboration between regulators, innovators, healthcare providers and government across the devolved nations.
The announcement follows the recent MHRA Board meeting in Cardiff and outlines a new programme of engagement activity, including regular MHRA Liaison Days in Wales, designed to support industry, researchers and NHS partners through greater access to regulatory expertise and guidance.
MediWales Chief Executive Officer, Gwyn Tudor, said:
“It was a delight to meet with the MHRA Board during their visit to Cardiff. We are encouraged by the MHRA’s commitment to strengthening its presence and engagement in Wales. The recognition of the distinct strengths and opportunities within the devolved nations is an important step in supporting innovation across the UK life sciences ecosystem.
“Wales has a highly collaborative life sciences community, particularly in areas such as medical technologies, diagnostics and digital health and across healthcare, industry and research organisations. Increased access to MHRA expertise and more direct engagement with Welsh innovators and NHS partners will help accelerate the development and adoption of safe, effective technologies that can improve patient outcomes.”
MediWales also welcomed the MHRA’s growing focus on engaging directly with SMEs and medical technology innovators, recognising the critical role smaller companies play in driving innovation within the Welsh ecosystem.
“For many SMEs, navigating the regulatory pathway is the most significant challenge in bringing innovations to market,” Gwyn Tudor added. “The MHRA’s willingness to engage earlier and more directly with companies developing medical technologies is particularly positive and demonstrates a modern, collaborative approach to regulation that supports innovation while maintaining patient safety.”
The strengthened relationship between the MHRA and the Welsh life sciences community has already been demonstrated through recent engagement activities. In March, the MHRA participated in the annual BioWales in London conference, contributing to discussions around innovation and the National Licensing Strategy.
This engagement will continue with MHRA presenting at the forthcoming MediWales Connects: NHS Collaboration Conference, where industry, NHS and research leaders will come together to explore opportunities for collaboration and innovation adoption across health and care.
Gwyn Tudor said. “We look forward to continuing work with the MHRA to support a thriving, innovation-led healthcare ecosystem.”
MediWales represents the life sciences and health technology community in Wales, supporting collaboration between industry, health boards, universities, research organisations and government to accelerate innovation and economic growth.
For information:
MHRA to support local life sciences sector in Wales