The UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has announced a new Northern Ireland hub, hosted by Invest Northern Ireland in its offices in central Belfast.
Local stakeholders in the healthcare, health and life sciences sectors across Northern Ireland will have the opportunity to schedule in-person sessions with MHRA technical experts.
These sessions will focus on topics such as innovation pathways and clinical investigations. Participants will also receive guidance on additional regulatory support offered by the MHRA throughout the product development pipeline.
Last month the regulator body launched a series of stakeholder liaison events at the HIRANI Health Tech Spring Conference, held in Belfast.
The first event showcased how the MHRA supports innovation and clinical investigations across the UK. The agency added that future events will focus on topics of interest to the sector in Northern Ireland and will be designed to build closer connections with local organisations.
This increased presence in Northern Ireland stems from commitments made following the MHRA Board meeting held in Belfast in November 2025.
The regulatory body said that, as a result of the meeting, work has already begun to expand the use of the MHRA Yellow Card scheme across Northern Ireland, strengthening surveillance and helping to detect safety issues earlier.
MHRA's Chair, Professor Anthony Harnden, said: "One of my priorities since becoming chair has been to ensure the MHRA is a regulator for all nations with an increased presence and engagement with our partners and stakeholders across the UK."
MHRA's Board seminar in Belfast last year signalled our commitment to supporting the life sciences sector in Northern Ireland to meet the 21st century challenges presented by new technologies such as personalised medicines and AI and embrace innovation whilst always putting the best interests of patients and the public first.
Northern Ireland is a key player in the global healthcare sector, specialising in precision medicine, pharmaceuticals and medical technology. In February, pharma giant Novo Nordisk announced plans to expand its Ireland facility to scale Wegovy production.
It is renowned for conducting clinical trials, supported by an integrated health system and advanced research facilities.
MHRA Chief Executive, Lawrence Tallon, added: "Northern Ireland’s unique geo-strategic position gives it unique access to both UK and EU markets, as well as strong links with the US."
The dynamic life sciences sector is already playing a key role in driving the local economy, creating employment and improving health outcomes for the people of Northern Ireland.
Invest NI's Director of Advanced Manufacturing and Life Sciences, Brendan McGuigan, said: "The MHRA's decision to establish a hub in Belfast is a clear vote of confidence in our thriving life and health sciences sector."
"By hosting the MHRA at our HQ, we're helping to bring regulatory expertise closer to local businesses, researchers and clinicians. This direct, in‑person access will support innovation, accelerate commercialisation, strengthen clinical research and help our innovative companies accelerate their new products to market faster."
Closer collaboration with the UK regulator will further enhance Northern Ireland’s attractiveness as a location to invest, innovate and scale in life sciences, supporting long‑term economic growth.