Caitong Securities released a research report stating that Chinese innovative pharmaceutical companies are transforming from participants to leading forces in global biotech transactions, leveraging their significant R&D and cost advantages. Their role has fundamentally shifted from technology importers to key exporters, with License-out becoming a critical growth driver. Meanwhile, China's biopharma industry demonstrates strong vitality in cutting-edge therapies and maintains an irreplaceable position in key supply chains, offering clear long-term investment value for related companies. Key insights from Caitong Securities include:
1. Chinese pharma firms account for ~30% of global BD transaction value. Domestic companies actively deploy in innovative drug R&D, benefiting from China’s industrial chain and talent pool, characterized by "abundant pipelines, rapid progress, high quality, and low cost." As a result, their pipelines have become a major source for overseas partners. Currently, China’s BD deals represent ~30% of global totals.
2. BD revenue is now a vital income stream for domestic innovators. While early-stage BD focused on License-in, License-out deals surged post-2021, turning local firms from buyers to suppliers. Data shows License-out’s share in China’s total BD transactions rose from 45% in 2021 to 91% in 2024, making globalization a key revenue driver.
3. Innovation centers on targets and tech pathways; small nucleic acids show promise. The small nucleic acid sector is thriving, with strong catalysts in commercialization, clinical progress, and BD. Multinationals (MNCs) remain deeply reliant on China for APIs/intermediates, ensuring sustained demand. As small nucleic acid drugs mature, MNCs will generate substantial new orders for monomers, sequences, and solvents like acetonitrile.
Investment Recommendations: - Innovative drugs/device: Focus on Furente, Anglikang, Staidson, MicroPort, Frontier Biotech, SinoMab, BaiMei, Changchun High-Tech, Mabwell, Gibel, Akeso, Deyuan Pharma, Baili, Kelun-B, Kelun Pharma, ZJ Pharma, RemeGen, Innovent, Hansoh, Lepu Bio-B, Everest, Jenkem, Sinocelltech, CStone, Shouyao, Bio-Thera, and CARsgen. - CXO/APIs: Consider WuXi AppTec, Jiuzhou Pharma, Chengda, Lianhe, Huahai, and Nuotai.
Risks: Clinical trial setbacks, slower-than-expected overseas deals, and policy uncertainties.
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