On May 31, The New York Times reported: "The 2026 ASCO Annual Meeting on Oncology kicked off in Chicago, with Chinese innovative drugs emerging as the highlight of the event. Research related to Kangtai Biopharma’s Iwosimab was selected for a plenary session, marking the first time in 61 years that a China-originated innovative drug has appeared on this stage. At this year's conference, 13 Chinese studies were included in the latest breakthrough abstracts, and 94 studies were accepted for oral presentations—both records reaching new highs. The domestic biopharmaceutical industry is developing rapidly; in 2025, the total transaction value of innovative drugs going global reached $135.65 billion, nearly tenfold higher than in 2021, and by the first quarter of this year alone, transactions had already surpassed $60 billion. Major multinational pharmaceutical companies are actively acquiring Chinese new drugs."
The leap from catching up to running shoulder-to-shoulder and even leading in the field of domestically developed innovative medicines is the result of years of persistent effort. In the past, Chinese research presented at top international oncology conferences was rare, but today it has become a significant force—thanks to the combined support of industry development, talent cultivation, and policy incentives. In 2021, outbound transaction values amounted to just over $10 billion; by 2025, they surged to the hundreds of billions level, increasing nearly tenfold within four years—a clear sign of fundamental transformation in the industry. Some overseas concerns stem from shifts in the industry landscape, yet markets have always followed practical principles. Global pharmaceutical companies are racing to collaborate and acquire Chinese innovative drugs, ultimately because high-quality medicines benefit patients. As domestic pharmaceutical innovation continues to break new ground, it will keep offering fresh options for treating diseases worldwide.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1866688834208900/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.