The pandemic has shown that strengthening health systems in Latin America and the Caribbean is not only a health and social challenge, but also a productive and technological one. Faced with this situation, the countries of the region have made significant efforts to expand and adapt their capacities to the needs arising from the pandemic, especially in terms of research, development and production of vaccines, medicines and other medical supplies. Thus, a sector that had been relegated to the background in terms of its productive potential has emerged as key not only to responding to the current situation, but also to catalysing the economy and society. New companies, products and services are being created and more added value and quality employment is being created, which ultimately translates into a better quality of life for people. The panel will analyse recent initiatives in the region, examining in more detail those that have contributed to strengthening the health industry. It will also review the main productive and technological limitations and potentialities, as well as future prospects for progress towards health sovereignty in Latin America and the Caribbean.