Health Matters
Printing is not available for Health Matters content.
Subscribers can read every article in full at health-matters.io.

30.10.2026

China clinical trials draw global drugmakers

China clinical trials offer drugmakers lower costs and faster recruitment, but safety and data concerns persist.
Laboratory researchers developing experimental medicines for China clinical trials
Image | Anon | Adobe Stock/345096142

China clinical trials are attracting international drugmakers seeking faster patient recruitment and lower costs, while raising questions about safety oversight and transparency.

China accounted for 45% of new clinical trials for innovative medicines in 2025, according to pharmaceutical data provider Norstella. Its share stood below 5% in 2008.

Continue reading with a Health Matters subscription

Subscribers read every article in full, receive the daily briefing and have access to the complete archive.

SubscribeLog in

More from Health Matters

30.10.2026

Medicine Shortages Prompt the Province to Seek National Intervention

Western Cape urges national action on medicine shortages and possible port delays affecting public healthcare.

28.10.2026

Six Factors Driving Medical Scheme Increases in 2027

Medical scheme increases in 2027 range from 7.35% to 8.9%. Ageing members, chronic illness and medicine costs drive contributions higher.

28.10.2026

GLP-1 Obesity Treatment Review Yet to Start in SA

GLP-1 obesity treatment remains unavailable in the public sector as officials delay a review despite WHO guidance. Read about the barriers.