1. China AND INDIA MAKING INROADS IN BIOTECH DRUGS New York Times, 18 September 2011

2. Definitions Brand-name drug = a drug that has a trade name and is protected by a patent Patent = exclusive rights to produce and sell a product Generic drug = cheaper but equally effective version of brand-name drug; manufactured without a licence and after the patent has expired

3. Interesting points How developing countries attempt to circumvent patents How the pharmaceutical industry and richer nations are fighting back Similarities between the current dilemma over cancer drugs and the one over AIDS 10 years ago

4. Key takeaways China and India can now copy the biotech drugs used to treat cancer, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases Effect Pharmaceutical companies and richer countries vs developing countries Reduce healthcare costs

5. Why I chose this topic Has a legal element Reflects the need to weigh competing policy considerations Rating: 8/10

6. Discussion questions Who will win the battle? Will developing countries be able to get the pharmaceutical industry to give up their patent rights for cancer drugs (and the accompanying profits)? Who should win the battle?