China's pharma industry hit record clinical drug trials and out-licensing deal values in 2025 and H1 2026, with NMPA approvals surging. The growth has drawn US Senate scrutiny and new bipartisan oversight legislation.
The US FTC is challenging a court ruling involving Johnson & Johnson's patent acquisition for Stelara, arguing it could weaken antitrust enforcement in pharma. Separately, Turkey's Court of Cassation ruled that patent holders who file infringement actions and send warning letters to third parties are exercising lawful patent rights, dismissing an unfair competition claim by a generic company.
The pharmaceutical industry is experiencing recovery driven by innovation in drug development, aggressive M&A activity, and expansion of drug development services. The sector faces both opportunities and headwinds including pipeline setbacks and regulatory pressures.