The Brazilian human health biotechnology sector was analyzed according to its spacial and sectorial distribution of the following aspects: (i) the scientific production; (ii) dependence of companies on governmental funding for research and development; (iii) the lack of innovative capacity regarding the discovery and development of new drugs and (iv) a disconnection between the advancement of scientific output and innovation within the private sector. The picture depicted suggests that, despite the advances being made in science and technology, it is still necessary to overcome many weaknesses to achieve an economic growth based on knowledge and innovation.