The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is undergoing a sea change in biopharma innovation, manufacturing, and outsourcing, primarily driven by China’s burgeoning biopharma sector. Ian Haydock, Editor-In-Chief, Insights, Asia-Pacific at Citeline, is poised to delve into the extensive ramifications of China’s rapidly expanding influence on the region during his keynote address at CPHI Japan 2023, scheduled for April 19-21.
Haydock notes that recent challenges in the US market have prompted China to recalibrate its priorities, with a strategic shift toward Southeast Asia and Japan. As China’s share of global R&D in new drugs and vaccines rises to 24%, the US holds 51%. Dominant therapeutic areas include oncology, rare diseases, and neurology.
“The phenomenal growth of China’s biopharma industry is transforming the APAC region, leading to the emergence of novel opportunities and challenges. With an increased emphasis on research and development, China is poised to become an even more significant player in markets like Southeast Asia and Japan,” Haydock observed.
This evolution in the global biopharma landscape is fueling the development of innovative distribution channels and regional manufacturing hubs. While Japan’s innovation environment remains strong, with stable growth, drug pricing systems persist as a challenge for research-based multinationals operating in the country.
The APAC biopharma sector is characterized by an array of smaller innovators, engendering a dynamic and diverse supply side teeming with a multitude of supply partners. CPHI Japan 2023 is set to attract 7,000 executives from 95 countries, signaling a return to pre-pandemic levels of engagement.
Jenny Leung, Regional Manager, Informa Markets, highlights the growing interest from international stakeholders in entering the Japanese market and forging strategic alliances with regional suppliers, distributors, and manufacturers. “The quest for collaboration and supply chain resources has reached unprecedented heights. Japanese firms are now proactively engaging with potential partners at earlier stages to maintain a competitive edge,” Leung said.
In honor of its 20th anniversary, CPHI Japan 2023 will feature an array of special events, including an award ceremony that celebrates the critical role of companies in the development of Japan’s thriving pharma industry.
