As data confirmed last year in the CPhI Global Pharma Index, China remains a region with unmatched growth potential, and companies globally are attempting to capitalise on the plethora of investment opportunities that have arisen in recent years. Of these, the Marketing Authorisation Holder (MAH) – which expedites time to market for many international companies – is currently fuelling innovation, and the possibility that it may be nationally introduced this year is a driving force for international attendance at CPhI China. Pre-registration figures are showing that US attendance at the event has risen by a remarkable 53%.

But it is not just the MAH; sweeping reforms in clinical trials have helped to reduce costs and barriers for companies conducting R&D within China. In 2018, the total pharmaceutical sales in China is projected to be $158 billion. The expected growth in international attendance is proof that companies are now looking to get a share of the world’s second largest pharma economy.

Now in its 18th edition, CPhI China will welcome 45,000 attendees and 3,000 exhibitors from over 120 countries, representing a year-on-year increase of 8% and 20% respectively. In response to this, three new country pavilions from Russia, Brazil and Poland have been added ­– further strengthening the relationships between China and the rest of the world.

For the first time, CPhI China 2018 will host an International Business Programme. This two-track, one-day conference has been shaped to serve two key audiences – the first track will tackle topics of interest to the international pharma community who are looking to expand to or within the Chinese market, and the second track will address the needs of Chinese companies who are looking to grow operations internationally. Spanning topics from biotech innovation to a more favourable regulatory environment, the International Business Programme will also provide an important opportunity for networking.

“The Chinese pharma economy has expanded vastly in recent years, with regulatory reforms – particularly China joining the ICH towards the end of 2017 – spurring international interest in the region,” commented Marie Lagrenee, Brand Manager of CPhI China, UBM. “In addition, many overseas trained scientists are returning to fuel the growth of a rapidly expanding R&D sector – attracting significant attention from international pharma companies. At such an important time, it is vital that events such as CPhI China provide a platform to facilitate new deals, exchange ideas and drive growth in this thriving market,” added Lagrenee.

China has the most pharma manufacturers in the world, with 6,500 companies producing 1,500 types of API. In recent years there has been a rapid growth of generics production in China – both in domestic and exports consumption –  and in order to supply the required ingredients CPhI China has introduced an excipients zone ‘PharmaExcipients’. Additionally, a new dedicated Animal Health & Feed zone will also be launched in light of the growing population and moves toward improving living standards.

For more information, please visit the official website: www.cphi.com/china