An analysis of the biotechnology development in Cuba for 20 years has been attempted in this paper. This paper deals with the evolution of the biotechnology sector from the 1980s, how it was structured and the most important scientific and technical results. Relevant discoveries, methodologies, technologies, and products developed at the Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology are also presented as significant contributions to the advances of the life sciences. Data and evidences are shown in this document that demonstrates the feasibility of developing a new industry in a developing country under foreign economic pressures. Conclusions suggest new paradigms, and future discussions of the broadest interest on the Cuban approach followed for developing the biotechnology industry.

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The emergence and expansion of biotechnology in Cuba as a new branch of the economy provide a good example of the challenges faced by a high-technology sector which deserves analysis. There are already clearly visible results in this sector such as investment in the research and production infrastructure, a qualified workforce, high-quality research and good product pipelines in the Cuban health system coupled with a growing export capacity, supporting a positive cash flow. These advances have been aided by the integration of research-production organisations, state funding, social ownership, export orientation and the comprehensive integration of the Cuban biotechnology multi-institutional system. In the forthcoming years, the future development of this sector in Cuba should produce a more evident impact on the economy and Cuban society.