China Climbs to Second Place Globally in New Drug Development

According to Guo Yanhong, Deputy Head of China’s National Health Commission, China has ascended to the second spot globally in the development of new drugs. This significant achievement underscores the rapid progress in China’s pharmaceutical research sector, where domestically-developed drugs now account for more than one-fifth of the total in research worldwide.

Significant Achievements in Pharmaceuticals and Advanced Medical Devices

In recent years, China has successfully developed a series of innovative drugs, including new cancer-fighting medications, which have received the necessary approvals for market release. A notable example is "zanubrutinib," which has been approved for use in many other countries, highlighting the quality and competitiveness of Chinese research.

Additionally, China has made substantial strides in developing high-end medical devices. These achievements include:

• A CT scanner based on photon-counting technology, which is up to three times more accurate than conventional devices.

• Domestically-developed surgical robots for orthopedics and soft tissue surgery, which enhance surgical precision and minimize injuries.

• The independent development of "ECMO" machines, artificial hearts, and proton and heavy ion therapy systems.

Guo confirmed that these innovations are helping to make advanced medical equipment more accessible and affordable, allowing more patients to benefit from them.