Mumbai: India is a "critically important backbone" for global clinical trials despite rising geopolitical tensions and regulatory uncertainty, according to Peyton Howell, chief executive of Parexel, a top clinical research organization (CRO). The country's role is expanding as the industry navigates supply chain disruptions and protectionist moves.

"India is growing and really thriving in terms of clinical research," Howell said at the summit. "Our hub centres out of India have supported global clinical trial business continuity, and we expect that to continue."

Durham, North Carolina-based Parexel employs 22,000 people globally, with 6,000 based in India. Howell noted that while the company has not seen significant disruption specifically from its Indian operations, the broader global landscape remains volatile.

"We have had to manage a wide range of disruptions, particularly because of regulatory uncertainty," Howell said, citing challenges in the US and conflicts in various regions as factors impacting international trials.

As some nations move toward more "nationalist" regulatory reforms, Howell argued that maintaining a global footprint is essential for scientific integrity.

"In clinical research, the accuracy of what we do is impaired if it is not representative of the globe," she said. "We certainly need patients that participate in clinical trials that represent all of the globe."

AI worries

Addressing concerns that artificial intelligence (AI) could lead to significant job losses in the healthcare sector, Howell described the technology as an "opportunity" to elevate professional roles rather than replace them.

She cited Parexel's India-based global safety business as a primary example with teams having used AI to automate routine tasks.

Source: ET Pharma - February 16,2026