China drug licensing deals 2025: Record-breaking $135.7B surge in biotech exports
Chinese drug makers reached a record US$135.7 billion in licensing deals in 2025, more than doubling from 2024. Read how Chinese biotech is reshaping the global market.
China's biotech sector is no longer just a follower—it's leading the global licensing-out race. In a historic year for the industry, licensing deals by Chinese drug makers more than doubled in 2025, hitting an all-time high. Global pharmaceutical giants are increasingly betting on Chinese innovation, pouring tens of billions into mainland and Hong Kong-listed firms to secure next-generation therapies.
China drug licensing deals 2025: Analysis of the record-breaking year
According to data from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), as reported by state media, a staggering 157 out-licensing deals were signed last year. These transactions reached a combined value of US$135.7 billion, representing a massive jump from 94 deals worth US$51.9 billion in 2024.
| Metric | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Deals | 94 | 157 |
| Total Value (USD) | $51.9 Billion | $135.7 Billion |
| Growth Rate | - | Approx. 161% |
Why Big Pharma is betting on Chinese innovation
The surge is propelled by dozens of multibillion-dollar agreements between global pharmaceutical giants and firms listed in Hong Kong and mainland China. These deals primarily focus on innovative drug candidates in high-growth areas like oncology and immunology, signaling that Chinese R&D is now meeting rigorous global standards.
This content is AI-generated based on source articles. While we strive for accuracy, errors may occur. We recommend verifying with the original source.
Related Articles
Dealmakers in San Francisco are gearing up for a massive wave of 2026 healthcare megamergers. Explore how patent cliffs and cash reserves are driving the M&A supercycle.
Drugmakers raised prices on over 350 medicines in the US despite pressure from Donald Trump. Explore the implications of US drug price hikes 2026 and the risks for investors.
Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu highlights a major shift in NFT markets toward long-term ownership. Discover how Animoca Brands NFT ownership 2026 is changing investor strategies.
OpenAI's annualized revenue has officially crossed the $20 billion mark in 2025. Discover the drivers behind this growth and what it means for the future of AI business.
Dealmakers in San Francisco are gearing up for a massive wave of 2026 healthcare megamergers. Explore how patent cliffs and cash reserves are driving the M&A supercycle.
Drugmakers raised prices on over 350 medicines in the US despite pressure from Donald Trump. Explore the implications of US drug price hikes 2026 and the risks for investors.
Animoca Brands co-founder Yat Siu highlights a major shift in NFT markets toward long-term ownership. Discover how Animoca Brands NFT ownership 2026 is changing investor strategies.
OpenAI's annualized revenue has officially crossed the $20 billion mark in 2025. Discover the drivers behind this growth and what it means for the future of AI business.