Gilead Sciences is presenting its latest advancements in virology, oncology, and mycology, along with its progress in health equity, at the ongoing seventh China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai. This marks Gilead's third participation in the annual event, which runs from November 5 to 10.
Showcasing New Therapies
At its 500-square-meter booth, Gilead is debuting its new therapy for primary biliary cholangitis, which received FDA approval in August. The company is also highlighting results from two Phase 3 trials of its twice-yearly injectable HIV-1 capsid inhibitor for HIV prevention.
Expansion and R&D in China
Gilead is boosting its research and development efforts in China and expects four additional oncology indications to be approved in the country within the next three years. "China is one of the largest, most dynamic and most vital markets in the world. It is also one of the most important markets to Gilead's long-term growth strategy," said Johanna Mercier, Gilead’s chief commercial officer. "We are therefore honored to participate in the CIIE once again. The event is a showcase of China's robust economic growth, strength in innovation and increasing openness to mutual collaboration that benefits us all."
Jin Fangqian, vice-president of Gilead and general manager of its China affiliate, noted the benefits of the CIIE, stating, "Over the past two years, Gilead accelerated the introduction of globally leading innovative drugs to Chinese patients, including the launch of new products for triple negative breast cancer and for invasive fungal diseases."
Commitment to the Chinese Market
Gilead initiated its operations in the Chinese market in 2017, initially focusing on virology. Over the past seven years, the company has broadened its scope to include oncology and mycology, and has integrated research capabilities into its operations. This year, Gilead opened a new branch in Hainan province, bringing its total number of branches and offices in China to nine, with over 800 employees across more than 90 locations.
To date, Gilead has launched 11 innovative drugs in China, targeting areas such as HIV prevention and treatment, viral hepatitis, invasive fungal diseases, and triple-negative breast cancer, according to Jin.
Local R&D Initiatives
Since 2022, Gilead has been accelerating the establishment of local R&D in China. "This effort encompasses the recruitment of a large number of R&D professionals specializing in clinical research, clinical development, registration and drug safety," said Jin. The company has established an R&D team with more than 150 professionals and is conducting around 20 clinical trials in China, covering virology and oncology.
"While Gilead is a relatively new entrant to the Chinese market, we consider the Chinese market to be of great importance. Recognizing substantial unmet healthcare needs, we are enthusiastic about expediting the introduction of more innovative treatments to serve Chinese patients," Jin added.
Collaborations and Future Prospects
At the CIIE, Gilead also signed several collaboration agreements with governments, local distributors, and industry associations to enhance drug access, improve treatment outcomes, and support the "Healthy China 2030" initiative.
"The broad economic growth in China showcases immense potential. At Gilead, we are highly confident in our long-term prospects in China and have strategic plans in place: we will boost investments, accelerate the introduction of new treatments, improve product accessibility for people who need them and bring a positive impact to the society," said Jin.
