According to an article published by The Washington Post on July 29, if the United States cannot accelerate the development of the biomedical industry, it may rely on China for key drug supplies in the future. The article warns that during the next public health crisis, Chinese companies could even be the first to develop important vaccines and therapeutic drugs.
The article points out that artificial intelligence is driving changes in biomedical research. Currently, the United States still has an advantage in the field of AI. Its “AI system,” consisting of chips, data centers, and cutting-edge research capabilities, is ahead of China. However, this advantage does not automatically translate into a leading position in the field of biotechnology. If the United States loses this competition, it will be placed in a dangerous situation, severely relying on its competitors.
Reports say that China is establishing a more complete “biotechnology system”, creating a more integrated industrial chain from research, clinical trials to drug production and commercialization. In recent years, China has accelerated reforms in drug approval procedures, reducing the time it takes for innovative drugs to be available on the market. With its extensive medical network and low costs, China is attracting an increasing number of global pharmaceutical companies to conduct clinical research in China.
Data shows that in 2024, China approved 48 innovative drugs for the first time, which is twice as many as two years ago. Currently, the number of clinical trials conducted in China has exceeded 7,100, surpassing that of the United States and making China one of the largest clinical research markets in the world.
Meanwhile, the United States has a high dependence on China for its pharmaceutical supply chain. Reports indicate that about 44% of American pharmaceutical imports come from China, and there are approximately 100 active ingredients for drugs that can only be purchased from China.
The article also states that once China becomes a leader in the field of biomedicine, the United States may face new supply chain risks. In the future, Chinese companies may not only lead the development of treatments for serious diseases, but they could also influence global drug supply through measures such as export restrictions.
However, the article also notes that the United States still maintains advantages in basic life science research and some advanced technological fields. The US needs to increase investment in scientific research, restore its domestic biomanufacturing capabilities, optimize the drug approval process, and work with allies to build a more diversified supply chain, in order to avoid falling behind in these strategic areas.
