7 Leading Latin America CROs Revolutionizing Clinical Research
Are you looking to expand your clinical research operations into one of the world's fastest-growing markets? Latin America's clinical trials sector is experiencing unprecedented growth, with a projected market value of $3.2 billion by 2025.
As the region emerges as a prime destination for clinical studies, choosing the right Latin America contract research organization (CRO) becomes crucial for your research success. These organizations offer comprehensive support across various therapeutic areas, from early feasibility studies to complex medical device clinical trials.
The landscape of contract research organizations in Latin America has evolved significantly, with several key players establishing robust infrastructures across Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, and other strategic locations. Each brings unique capabilities, specialized expertise, and extensive regional networks to the table.
To help you make an informed decision, we've analyzed seven leading CROs that are setting new standards in Latin American clinical research. Our comprehensive evaluation covers their service offerings, geographical reach, and specialized capabilities in managing both pharmaceutical and medical device clinical trials.
IQVIA Latin America
When seeking a partner for your clinical research initiatives in Latin America, IQVIA stands out as one of the region's most comprehensive laboratory services organizations. Their end-to-end solutions and enterprise-wide management capabilities make them a formidable presence in the clinical research landscape.
IQVIA Latin America Services
IQVIA combines cutting-edge technology with over 35 years of clinical vaccine development experience [1]. Their service portfolio includes:
Genomic laboratory services supporting drug discovery
Biomarker testing in CLIA-certified laboratories
Biospecimen and consent management solutions
Digital innovation solutions for operational improvements
The organization's commitment to innovation is evident through their dedicated Digital Innovation department, which focuses on creating agile solutions that enhance traceability, productivity, and efficiency [1].
IQVIA Latin America Expertise
Your research benefits from IQVIA's data-driven approach and specialized expertise across multiple domains. They leverage established relationships to identify optimal research sites and implement patient-centered recruitment strategies [2]. Their technical proficiency extends to:
Real-world Evidence Generation: Utilizing Brazil's rich LPD DATASUS dataset, covering nearly 90% of the population [3]
Commercial Analytics: AI-driven insights for market opportunities
Regulatory Compliance: End-to-end support across safety, quality, and medical information
IQVIA Latin America Coverage
IQVIA maintains a robust presence across key Latin American markets, with significant investments and infrastructure. In 2019, the organization, along with other industry leaders, contributed to approximately USD 980 million in clinical trials across Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico [4]. Their regional coverage includes:
Primary Markets: Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico (accounting for 70% of clinical trials) [5]
Secondary Markets: Colombia and Chile (representing 20% of trials) [5]
Emerging Markets: Peru, Costa Rica, Panama, and Guatemala (comprising 10% of trials) [5]
The organization's commitment to the region is reflected in their participation in nearly 700 clinical studies, with investments exceeding USD 1 billion in a single year [5]. Their presence in major urban centers, where over 80% of Latin America's population resides, ensures efficient patient recruitment and retention [4].
Parexel Latin America
Partnering with a well-established contract research organization can significantly accelerate your clinical research initiatives in Latin America. Parexel, with its extensive regional experience since 2002, offers you comprehensive solutions across multiple therapeutic areas.
Parexel Latin America Capabilities
Your clinical research benefits from Parexel's full spectrum of Phase I to IV clinical development services, supported by over 21,000 global professionals [6]. The organization excels in:
Clinical Trial Management
Regulatory Advisory Services
Data Management and Biostatistics
Medical Marketing Services
Clinical Pharmacology
Project Management
Parexel Latin America Experience
The organization's commitment to Latin America is evidenced by impressive market growth projections, with the regional clinical trials market expected to expand from USD 2.17 billion in 2024 to USD 3.23 billion by 2029 [7]. Your research benefits from:
Proven Track Record: Brazil leads with approximately 10,000 registered clinical studies, followed by Mexico (5,000) and Argentina (4,000) [7]
Regulatory Excellence: Faster-than-average approval timelines through established relationships with health authorities
Local Expertise: The highest retention rates in the region compared to competitors [7]
Parexel Latin America Network
Your research gains access to strategically positioned facilities across key markets. Parexel maintains four primary locations in Latin America:
Brazil: Largest market with 180M population, western and developing world disease patterns [8]
Argentina: Most advanced regulatory processes, streamlined drug approval pathway [8]
Mexico: Enhanced opportunities for Central American research [9]
Chile: Established presence with comprehensive research capabilities [9]
The organization's infrastructure is further strengthened through partnerships with local CROs and collaboration with ABRACRO (Brazilian Association of Clinical Research Representative Organizations) [7]. This network enables you to leverage:
Harmonized storage and distribution facilities [10]
Consistent material flow for clinical trials
Access to qualified investigators and research sites
Parexel's commitment to the region is demonstrated through continuous infrastructure expansion and strategic partnerships, ensuring your clinical research benefits from both global expertise and local insights.
Sofpromed Latin America
For efficient and cost-effective clinical research management in Latin America, Sofpromed offers a streamlined approach with its boutique CRO services. As a smaller organization with 50-75 employees, your research benefits from personalized attention while maintaining high-quality standards [11].
Sofpromed Latin America Operations
Your clinical trials gain from Sofpromed's comprehensive service portfolio that spans the entire research lifecycle. Their operations encompass:
Regulatory Affairs and Submissions
Clinical Operations Management
Data Management and Biostatistics
Medical Writing Services
Pharmacovigilance
Site Selection and Activation [12]
The organization's commitment to operational excellence is enhanced through innovative e-CRF solutions and specialized web tools for managing medical images and biological samples [13].
Sofpromed Latin America Specialties
Your research benefits from Sofpromed's expertise across multiple therapeutic areas, with particular strength in:
Therapeutic AreaSpecialized CapabilitiesOncologyPhase I-IV trialsCardiovascularFull-service managementMetabolic DisordersComprehensive monitoringCentral Nervous SystemData analysis expertiseDermatologyPatient recruitmentRespiratory DiseasesSafety monitoring [14]
The organization's biometrics team consists of highly qualified professionals ensuring accuracy and efficiency in data processing [15].
Sofpromed Latin America Reach
Your clinical research gains access to Sofpromed's extensive network spanning multiple regions. Their strategic presence includes:
Primary Markets: United States, United Kingdom, and Europe
Emerging Markets: Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and North Africa
Latin American Coverage: Comprehensive regional network [12]
The organization leverages its global presence to provide strategic guidance on country selection for cost optimization while maintaining quality standards [11]. Their approach to site networks enhances trial efficiency through:
Streamlined communication and coordination
Standardized procedures across sites
Enhanced patient recruitment capabilities
Improved retention rates [16]
PPD Latin America
Transform your clinical research initiatives with PPD's extensive Latin American network, backed by more than 25 dedicated regulatory affairs personnel supporting operations across 15 countries [17].
PPD Latin America Services
Your research benefits from PPD's comprehensive end-to-end solutions, including:
Clinical trial design and management
Bioanalytical testing
Data management and analysis
Patient recruitment strategies [18]
The organization's commitment to operational excellence is evident through their innovative approach to regulatory submissions, which has resulted in 10-25% faster review timelines across the region [19].
PPD Latin America Expertise
Your clinical studies gain from PPD's robust understanding of diverse local regulations and strong relationships with regulatory authorities [17]. Their expertise is demonstrated through:
Regulatory Intelligence: Daily updated proprietary platform providing actionable insights
Strategic Planning: Early engagement and shared governance model
Quality Assurance: Comprehensive internal and external audits by COFEPRIS and FDA [20]
The organization's regulatory team maintains trust-based relationships with individual authorities, ensuring efficient navigation of country-specific requirements while maintaining the highest safety standards [19].
PPD Latin America Infrastructure
Your research leverages PPD's advanced digital infrastructure and strategic regional presence. Their technological capabilities include:
Digital Platforms: Enhanced transparency and accountability
AI Integration: Improved operational efficiency
Interconnected Systems: Seamless client communication
Data Management Tools: Comprehensive record-keeping [20]
The organization's regional coverage spans major Latin American markets, with state-of-the-art facilities and experienced researchers particularly concentrated in major cities [20]. Their infrastructure supports:
Site Selection: Data-driven approach for optimal location choices
Patient Access: Large population pools across therapeutic areas
Regulatory Compliance: Streamlined submission processes
Quality Control: Standardized procedures across all locations [18]
PPD's commitment to digitalization has significantly enhanced trial efficiency, with complete trial packages submission strategy reducing regulatory approval times [20]. Their infrastructure continues to evolve, incorporating new technologies and platforms to support increasingly complex clinical trials [18].
Syneos Health Latin America
Leverage the power of integrated biopharmaceutical solutions with Syneos Health, a dynamic force in Latin American clinical research. Their unique approach combines clinical, medical affairs, and commercial insights to accelerate your path to market success.
Syneos Health Latin America Solutions
Your clinical research benefits from Syneos Health's comprehensive integration of services. Their solutions encompass:
Full-Service Clinical Development
Medical Affairs Consulting
Commercial Strategy Implementation
Advanced Technology Integration
Patient-Centric Trial Design
Their innovative approach places both you and your patients at the center, streamlining processes while maintaining the highest quality standards [21].
Syneos Health Latin America Experience
Your research gains credibility through Syneos Health's impressive track record. Over the past five years, they have:
Contributed to 94% of all Novel FDA Approved Drugs
Supported 95% of EMA Authorized Products
Managed over 200 Studies across 73,000 Sites
Engaged with 675,000+ Trial patients [21]
Their expertise extends across multiple therapeutic areas, with a proven ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes while maintaining consistent quality standards [22].
Syneos Health Latin America Coverage
Your clinical trials benefit from Syneos Health's extensive regional presence, supported by their global network of 29,000 employees across 110 countries [21]. Their infrastructure includes:
Geographic Reach: Strategic presence across major Latin American markets
Site Network: 73,000+ research sites with established relationships
Patient Access: Diverse population pools across therapeutic areas
Technology Integration: Proprietary platforms for streamlined operations
The organization's commitment to Latin America is evidenced through their comprehensive support system, which includes:
Integrated Payment Solutions: Multi-currency capabilities for efficient trial management [23]
Customized Card Programs: Streamlined patient reimbursement systems
Data Management Integration: Seamless connectivity with global systems [23]
Their patient-centric approach ensures high retention rates while their technological infrastructure supports efficient trial management across the region. The organization's commitment to diversity and inclusion creates an environment where innovative solutions thrive, directly benefiting your research outcomes [21].
ICON Latin America
Discover why ICON, the pioneer of clinical research in Latin America, continues to lead the region's transformation in clinical trials. As the first global CRO to establish operations in Latin America in 1998, ICON brings unparalleled experience to your research initiatives [24].
ICON Latin America Capabilities
Your clinical trials benefit from ICON's comprehensive range of services, delivered through a network of over 41,160 professionals across 108 locations globally [25]. Their capabilities extend across:
Full-spectrum clinical trial management
Development and commercialization services
Healthcare intelligence solutions
Best-in-class information systems [26]
The organization's commitment to quality has earned them prestigious recognition, including the PharmaTimes Clinical Research Company of the Year award in 2021 [25].
ICON Latin America Expertise
Your research gains from ICON's deep understanding of local regulations and cultural nuances. Their expertise is demonstrated through:
Superior Trial Compliance: All FDA site inspections conducted over the last decade have yielded positive results [24]
Enhanced Patient Retention: Drop-out rates in the region are one-third of those in US and EU [24]
Strong Doctor-Patient Relationships: Built upon robust health infrastructure across countries [24]
ICON Latin America Network
Your clinical studies leverage ICON's strategic presence across six key markets [24]:
Argentina: Advanced research infrastructure
Brazil: Large patient populations
Chile: High-quality healthcare systems
Colombia: Diverse patient demographics
Guatemala: Central American gateway
Mexico: Strategic location advantage
Peru: Growing research capabilities
The organization's regional infrastructure supports your research through:
Population Access: Over 600 million inhabitants with 80% urban concentration [24]
Language Efficiency: Operations in just two primary languages - Spanish and Portuguese [24]
Market Potential: Substantial opportunities for approved drugs, with accelerated registration through multi-regional trial participation [24]
ICON's commitment to advancing healthcare innovation is evident through their continuous investment in technology and infrastructure. Their presence in major metropolitan areas ensures access to concentrated patient populations, particularly beneficial for studies in cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, cancer, and infectious diseases, which show prevalence rates comparable to the United States [24].
Medpace Latin America
Image Source: Medpace
Accelerate your clinical research initiatives with Medpace's strategic presence across Latin America, where regulatory expertise meets operational excellence. Their commitment to advancing safe and effective medical therapeutics sets them apart in the region's evolving research landscape.
Medpace Latin America Services
Your clinical trials benefit from Medpace's comprehensive service portfolio, delivered by over 5,000 professionals across 40+ countries [27]. Their core services include:
Clinical Trial Management
Site Activation & Maintenance
Clinical Monitoring
Safety & Pharmacovigilance
Regulatory Affairs Support [28]
The organization leverages local regulatory and therapeutic expertise across all major areas, ensuring your research meets the highest quality standards while maintaining efficiency [27].
Medpace Latin America Specialties
Your research gains from Medpace's specialized expertise across multiple therapeutic domains:
Oncology: Advanced trial design
Cardiology: Comprehensive monitoring
Metabolic Disease: Patient recruitment
Endocrinology: Data management
Central Nervous System: Safety oversight
Anti-viral/Anti-infective: Regulatory compliance [27]
Their commitment to excellence is particularly evident in Argentina, where new regulations have reduced clinical trial approval timelines from 160 to 70 business days or less [29]. This regulatory efficiency enables:
Technical evaluation completion within 60 working days
Administrative processing in 10 working days
Expedited 45-day approval for studies previously approved in high-vigilance countries [29]
Medpace Latin America Presence
Your clinical studies leverage Medpace's extensive regional infrastructure, with strategic locations including:
Brazil: Largest office in the region, housing key operational departments [28]
Argentina: Advanced regulatory processes and established infrastructure [29]
Mexico: Over ten-year operational history since 2006 [30]
Strategic Partners: Operational networks in Peru, Colombia, and Central America [30]
The organization's regional presence offers unique advantages for your research:
Access to qualified healthcare professionals with strong patient relationships
Enhanced enrollment and adherence rates
Superior quality data with excellent performance in FDA & EMA audits [29]
Brazil's office expansion demonstrates Medpace's commitment to growth, with enhanced capabilities in Clinical Trial Management, Site Activation & Maintenance, Clinical Monitoring, and Safety & Pharmacovigilance [28]. This strategic growth enables improved quality, strategic thinking, and efficient delivery of services across the region [28].
Latin America CRO Comparison Table
Conclusion
Latin America stands as a prime destination for clinical research, backed by a projected market value of $3.2 billion by 2025. Each profiled CRO brings distinct advantages - from IQVIA's comprehensive laboratory services to Parexel's extensive regional experience, and from Syneos Health's integrated solutions to ICON's pioneering presence.
These organizations excel through their robust infrastructure spanning major markets like Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina. Their specialized expertise across therapeutic areas, combined with deep understanding of local regulations, helps streamline your clinical trials while maintaining the highest quality standards.
Patient recruitment and retention rates surpass global averages, thanks to concentrated urban populations and strong doctor-patient relationships. Advanced technological capabilities and standardized procedures ensure efficient trial management, data accuracy, and regulatory compliance.
Ready to elevate your medical device clinical trials in Latin America? Contact bioaccess® today to discover how our expertise can support your research initiatives!
Your choice of CRO partner significantly impacts research success. Consider factors like therapeutic expertise, regional coverage, and regulatory experience while selecting the organization best suited for your specific needs. These leading CROs demonstrate Latin America's capability to deliver world-class clinical research services while offering cost-effective solutions and access to diverse patient populations.
FAQs
What are the largest Contract Research Organizations (CROs) in the clinical research industry? According to recent data, the largest CROs worldwide include Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Labcorp, IQVIA, ICON, and WuXi Clinical. These rankings are based on annual revenue figures, with Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. leading the pack in the United States as of 2023.
What is a CRO in clinical research? A CRO, or Contract Research Organization, is a company that provides research management services to sponsors such as pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device companies. Traditional CROs offer clinical trial management services, while laboratory CROs provide services related to drug discovery, manufacturing, laboratory work, and bioanalytical services.
How many Contract Research Organizations are there in the United States? As of 2023, there are 4,232 Contract Research Organizations operating in the United States. This represents a 3.6% increase from the previous year, indicating growth in the CRO industry.
What are some leading CROs operating in Latin America? Some of the leading CROs in Latin America include IQVIA Latin America, Parexel Latin America, Sofpromed Latin America, PPD Latin America, Syneos Health Latin America, ICON Latin America, and Medpace Latin America. Each of these organizations offers unique capabilities and extensive regional coverage across various Latin American countries.
What advantages does Latin America offer for clinical research? Latin America offers several advantages for clinical research, including:
A large, diverse patient population
High patient retention rates
Strong doctor-patient relationships
Concentrated urban populations for easier recruitment
Cost-effective research solutions
Growing market potential, with projections reaching $3.2 billion by 2025
Improving regulatory processes in countries like Argentina
What services do CROs typically offer in Latin America? CROs in Latin America typically offer a wide range of services, including:
Clinical trial design and management
Regulatory affairs and submissions
Data management and biostatistics
Patient recruitment and retention strategies
Medical writing services
Pharmacovigilance
Site selection and activation
Bioanalytical testing
Healthcare intelligence solutions
How do CROs in Latin America handle regulatory challenges? CROs in Latin America have developed expertise in navigating the region's regulatory landscape. They often maintain strong relationships with local health authorities, employ regulatory intelligence platforms, and have dedicated teams for regulatory affairs. Some CROs, like PPD, have reported achieving 10-25% faster review timelines across the region due to their regulatory expertise.
References
[1] - https://labs.iqvia.com/investigator-site-support-south-america-contact
[2] - https://www.iqvia.com/solutions/therapeutics/cell-and-gene-therapy
[3] - https://www.iqvia.com/events/2024/09/exploring-real-world-data-in-brazil-and-latin-america
[4] - https://www.clinicalleader.com/doc/latin-america-a-compelling-region-to-conduct-your-clinical-trials-0001
[5] - https://www.iqvia.com/insights/the-iqvia-institute/reports-and-publications/reports/valuing-the-research-based-pharmaceutical-industry-in-latin-america
[6] - https://www.parexel.com/
[7] - https://www.parexel.com/insights/article/latam-a-model-for-fsp-success
[8] - https://www.outsourcing-pharma.com/Article/2007/07/12/parexel-talks-clinical-research-in-latin-america/
[9] - https://www.biospace.com/parexel-international-strengthens-capabilities-in-latin-america-with-new-location-in-mexico-city
[10] - https://www.fiercebiotech.com/cro/parexel-expands-regional-distribution-center-and-supply-depot-network-to-enhance-global
[11] - https://www.sofpromed.com/affordable-cro-for-low-cost-clinical-trials-in-the-us-and-abroad
[12] - https://www.sofpromed.com/full-service-cro-worldwide-clinical-trials
[13] - https://www.linkedin.com/company/sofpromed
[14] - https://www.sofpromed.com/company
[15] - https://www.sofpromed.com/clinical-data-managers-for-clinical-trials
[16] - https://www.sofpromed.com/how-clinical-site-networks-enhance-clinical-trials
[17] - https://www.ppd.com/our-solutions/clinical/phase-ii-iv-clinical-trial-management/regulatory-affairs/global-regulatory-affairs/regulatory-development/
[18] - https://www.ppd.com/blog/growing-role-of-contract-research-organizations-in-clinical-trials/
[19] - https://www.ppd.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/2019-Oct-Regulatory-Rapporteur-Latin-America-Regulatory.pdf
[20] - https://mexicobusiness.news/health/news/latam-offers-great-potential-clinical-studies-rd-destination
[21] - https://www.syneoshealth.com/careers/jobs/15185014-sr-site-activation-manager-sponsor-dedicated-home-based-mexico
[22] - https://www.syneoshealth.com/clinical-corporate-careers/jobs/15182378-sr-dir-ssu-and-regulatory
[23] - https://www.intercash.com/syneos-health-case-study
[24] - https://www.iconplc.com/about/icon-in-latin-america
[25] - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ICON_PLC
[26] - https://www.linkedin.com/company/icon-plc-2
[27] - https://careers.medpace.com/jobs/10162?lang=en-us
[28] - https://www.medpace.com/careers/blog/medpace-brazil-office-updates/
[29] - https://www.medpace.com/blog/clinical-research-in-argentina/
[30] - https://www.medpace.com/blog/spotlight-on-mexico/
