Beijing life sciences hub accelerates shift to novel drug innovation

China’s pharmaceutical sector is accelerating beyond generics, driven by innovation hubs like Zhongguancun Life Science Park in Beijing’s Changping district. Spanning 7.2 square kilometres, the park hosts more than 1,000 companies and national-level R&D institutes, creating a fully integrated ecosystem that connects basic research, clinical trials, manufacturing, and healthcare delivery.

The park has already produced tangible breakthroughs. Huahui Health’s monoclonal antibody treatment for hepatitis B and D, Libeiweita, is on track for conditional marketing approval by late 2025 or early 2026. Having secured breakthrough therapy designation in both China and the US, and benefiting from priority review status, the drug exemplifies Zhongguancun’s role in transforming laboratory discoveries into first-in-class therapies. Its development, rooted in research from the National Institute of Biological Sciences, highlights how the park accelerates translational science.

Beyond hepatitis, Zhongguancun is advancing cell and gene therapy, neuroscience, and AI-powered healthcare solutions. Nearly 190 cell and gene therapy products are in development, with close to 30 clinical trial approvals, while local digital health firms hold almost 40% of Beijing’s Class III AI medical device certifications. Neuroscience innovation is also accelerating, with five recent implant surgeries testing the Beinao-1 brain-computer interface device.

The hub’s integrated approach is reinforced by access to over 3,000 hospital beds and support from nearly 60 incubators and service platforms. Expansion plans include new national-level laboratories, enhanced policy backing, and additional incentives for clinical trials and medical device innovation.

As China focuses on becoming a creator of novel therapies rather than a follower, hubs like Zhongguancun are poised to drive competitiveness, attract investment, and shape the next wave of global pharmaceutical innovation. By linking research, clinical development, and commercialisation, the park is redefining the country’s role in global drug development.

Explore the full article to see how Beijing’s hub is redefining China’s drug innovation landscape.