China’s drug industry pivots to AI-powered candidates to drive next wave of deals
The News
China's drug industry set a record with US$110 billion in cross-border deals in the first half of 2026. The country now accounts for 30% of new drugs under development worldwide, ranking second. The sector is shifting focus to AI-powered drug candidates to drive future transactions. This development highlights China's growing influence in global pharmaceutical innovation and deal-making.
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The Analysis
Intelligence Brief
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Industry pivoting to AI-powered candidates
Lan Gongtao is deputy director general of the Department of Drug Registration at the National Medical Products Administration.
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Key findings
China accounted for about 30 per cent of all new drugs currently under development worldwide, ranking second globally.
OpinionClaims
China accounted for about 30 per cent of all new drugs currently under development worldwide, ranking second globally.
OpinionLan Gongtao is deputy director general of the Department of Drug Registration at the National Medical Products Administration.
OpinionChina’s cross-border deals for innovative drugs hit a record US$110 billion in the first half of 2026.
South China Morning PostThe sector is now pivoting towards artificial intelligence-powered candidates to drive the next wave of transactions.
South China Morning Post