AstraZeneca plans to invest around USD 15 billion in China by 2030 — a clear signal of a reset in UK–China economic relations.
🤝 Announced during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Beijing, the commitment spans manufacturing, research and development, and new capacity across the pharmaceutical value chain.
The details
Strategic focus: AstraZeneca is expanding cell therapies, radioconjugates, and innovative drug platforms in China. The group aims to become the first global pharma company to establish fully integrated cell therapy capabilities locally.
Industrial footprint: Production sites in Wuxi, Taizhou, Qingdao, and Beijing will be expanded. These facilities serve not only China but around 70 international markets.
China as a core market: China is already AstraZeneca’s second-largest market after the US, accounting for roughly 12% of group revenue. Headcount in the country is set to rise to more than 20,000.
Context
While some Western pharma companies are scaling back amid pricing pressure and uncertainty, AstraZeneca is doubling down. The bet: China is not just a sales market, but an increasingly important source of new drug candidates.
Geopolitical background: The deal comes as London seeks greater economic autonomy between Washington and Beijing. Chinese President Xi Jinping described the move as opening a “new chapter” in bilateral relations.
👉 Full story: SCMP, AstraZeneca, The Guardian
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