Pfizer CEO Urges Greater U.S.–China Collaboration in Pharma Innovation

Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between the U.S. and Chinese pharmaceutical industries, noting China’s rapid progress in drug development over the past decade. Speaking at the National Committee on U.S.–China Relations Gala in New York, Bourla highlighted China’s growing share of global innovation, now accounting for nearly 30% of worldwide drug development.

China’s Rising Role in Global Drug Development

Bourla pointed out that China currently has about 1,200 novel drug candidates in development, a massive leap from just 60 a decade ago. He credited China’s speed, cost efficiency, and scale for transforming the competitive landscape in biopharma and urged U.S. companies to engage with Chinese counterparts to drive global innovation forward.

Amid Trade Tensions and Regulatory Challenges

The call for collaboration comes amid escalating U.S.–China trade tensions. President Donald Trump’s recent tariffs and past U.S. legislative efforts to limit business with Chinese pharmaceutical firms have strained industry relations. Despite geopolitical friction, Bourla’s remarks suggest that strategic cooperation may be essential to sustaining innovation and global health progress.