ISRAEL 
HIGH-TECH & INVESTMENT REPORT

from the July 2002 issue


Boston Scientific to Invest $100m in Israeli Medical Sector


Boston Scientific (NYSE: BSX) a leading American medical device maker plans to invest $100 million over the next few years in the Israeli medical equipment and biotechnology sectors. The company recently launched an independent Israeli representation as part of its expanding activity here, inaugurating new offices north of Tel Aviv. According to Boston Scientific Israel CEO Doron Debbie, the company decided to expand its activity to Israel due its business, professional and technological potential. In June BSX celebrated the start of its activities with a festive gathering attended by entrepreneurs and some of Israel's leading physicians.

Debbie said the company, which will employ twenty people in its new offices, will expand its investment in Israel in three areas: the marketing and distribution of the company's innovative technology, clinical trials in association with the Israeli scientific establishment and cooperation with relevant Israeli ventures. Boston Scientific has previously invested in four Israeli companies: stent-maker Medinol, Mel Medical Enterprises, SightLine, and venture capital fund Vitalife. The company also has exclusive distribution agreements in Japan and the U.S. with laser-maker Lumenis (Nasdaq:LUME).

In March 2002, Medinol Ltd., in which Boston Scientific holds a 22% stake, announced the termination of its exclusive distribution agreement, stating that Boston had consistently breached agreements between the companies. Medinol is suing Boston Scientific in New York courts for its alleged theft of intellectual property.

Mel Medical Enterprises was established in 1998 as a Boston subsidiary engaged in the development of minimally invasive systems for treating both cancerous and benign growths.


Reprinted from the Israel High-Tech & Investment Report July 2002

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