Performance
The most important measure of Bristol-Myers Squibb’s success as a next-generation BioPharma leader is the difference we make in the lives of patients. In addition, our ability to ensure the sustainability of our business is often measured by our sales growth.
The company's products are sold principally to the wholesale and retail trade. Certain products are also sold to other drug manufacturers, hospitals and the medical profession. Bristol-Myers Squibb is also committed to improving access to our medicines for patients who are unable to afford them.
The following information on the company's results exclude the results related to the Medical Imaging business prior to its divestiture in January 2008 and the ConvaTec business prior to its divestiture in August 2008.
Sales
Bristol-Myers Squibb's worldwide sales from continuing operations are shown in the following table:
| $16,208 million |
$18,193 million |
$20,597 million |
13% |
Bristol-Myers Squibb products are available in virtually every country in the world. The company's largest markets include the United States, France, Spain, Canada, China, Japan, Italy, Mexico and Germany.
| United States |
58% |
| Europe, Mid-East, Africa |
22% |
| Pacific |
12% |
| Other Western Hemisphers |
8% |
| Pharmaceuticals |
86% |
| Nutritionals |
14% |
In 2008, we invested $3.5 billion on pharmaceutical R&D, an amount that represents 20 percent of our pharmaceutical sales.
Taxes Paid
Bristol-Myers Squibb paid $636 million in income taxes in 2008. For more information on taxes paid, refer to the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements of our Annual Report.