"We will take the lead in constructing an industrial technology innovation center with global influence, leveraging our resources to fully establish Nanjing as a pacesetter in the biopharmaceutical industry," said Zhu Chaoping, deputy head of the Nanjing Municipal Science and Technology Bureau, during a media interview on June 3. 

Nanjing Biotech and Pharmaceutical Valley [Photo provided to China.org.cn]

Zhu emphasized that Nanjing boasts four specialized biopharmaceutical universities, over 20 key colleges offering relevant programs, and more than 30 top-tier hospitals. These rich educational and health care resources provide a strong foundation for the development of the biopharmaceutical industry, he added.

To support the growth of the sector, Nanjing has published a series of policy documents, including a life and health science and technology innovation action plan, measures to promote high-quality development of the biopharmaceutical industry, and biopharmaceutical industry cluster action plan.

Nanjing's biopharmaceutical industry has seen substantial growth, with 1,032 high-tech enterprises currently operating in the sector, and annual industry revenue surpassing 200 billion yuan last year.

One of the key drivers of this growth has been the Nanjing Biotech and Pharmaceutical Valley (NJBPV). Established in 2011, the valley serves as the city's premier biopharmaceutical base. Spanning 14.92 square kilometers, NJBPV supports the full spectrum of industry needs, from innovation and incubation to acceleration and industrialization. 

It is now home to over 1,000 life sciences companies, forming a complete industrial chain led by gene and cell industries, innovative drugs, high-end medical devices, specialized testing services, and pharmaceutical distribution.

As of May 2024, NJBPV's innovative pharmaceutical companies are developing over 200 products, with 70 innovative drugs entering clinical trials. One of the leading companies in the valley is Simcere Pharmaceutical Group.

Simcere's vice president, Shi Ruiwen, praised the supportive environment fostered by NJBPV, noting, "The talent pool and collaborative atmosphere among pharmaceutical companies here are unparalleled."

He highlighted the rapid development facilitated by government policies, which has significantly shortened the time required to bring new drugs to market.