CORK will play host to a major conference next week which will discuss the challenges facing the €33 billion bio-pharma industry in Ireland.

Irish opportunities to take advantage of the emerging dominance of Asian economies are to be explored at a major think-in today.

Top politicians and business people have been lined up for one of the most prestigious events in the Irish business calendar next week.

IMI’s 2005 conference is designed to ensure the country stays in the top flight of global economic performers in the years ahead.