Biotech Boom in China
Investment Opportunities Arise for Hong Kong Inventor ORI in China with the Launch of New Biotech Fund
With a growing interest in the Chinese biotech sector, ORI Capital, an established venture capital firm founded in 2015, is eyeing significant investment opportunities in China. Their latest venture, a third fund, aims to attract around US$350 million, primarily focusing on Chinese biotech start-ups [4].
The investment landscape in China is evolving rapidly, especially within the healthcare sector. ORI Capital sees the integration of AI as a key driver for innovation and staying ahead of market trends [4]. This fund intends to cater to a diverse array of investors, reaching out not just to mainland China and Hong Kong, but also to other parts of Asia and Europe [4].
Simone Song, founder and senior partner of ORI Capital, has been quoted saying, "China's DeepSeek moment in biotech is already here" [1]. It seems the biotech industry in China is poised for a breakthrough, much like DeepMind's AI system DeepSeek, which made headlines for its incredible speed in discovering new chemicals [1].
The Chinese government has consistently supported the biotechnology sector, with substantial budget allocations for science and technology. In 2024, China spent approximately $34.5 billion on science and technology, aiming to increase this to $55 billion in 2025 [5]. However, there are still challenges in the funding ecosystem, such as a lack of coordination among government agencies and a preference for large, nationally aligned projects that can sometimes stifle smaller, innovative breakthroughs [5].
The growing engagement between European companies and Chinese biotech firms is noteworthy [3][4]. Pharma deals between European companies and Chinese biotech firms have increased, although the US market remains relatively less active compared to China's resurgence [3][4]. Additionally, Chinese biotech firms are becoming more involved in major licensing deals, with several Chinese-designed drugs featuring in the top ten global pharmaceutical licensing deals in early 2025 [4].
ORI Capital's new fund highlights the global recognition of the potential in China's biotech sector. As China continues to invest heavily in R&D, it presents a strategic opportunity for investors worldwide. However, the dynamic funding landscape requires a keen understanding of the challenges and ongoing shifts in the biotech sector within China.
- The integration of AI in the Chinese biotech sector, as observed by ORI Capital, presents an opportunity for business investment and growth in health-and-wellness technology.
- ORI Capital's new fund, primarily focusing on Chinese biotech start-ups, also aims to reach out to investors in finance and investing, both in Asia and Europe.
- The growing involvement of European companies and Chinese biotech firms in partnerships and licensing deals underscores the significance of the biotech industry in arts and sciences, particularly in the areas of pharmaceuticals and technology.
- Despite the Chinese government's investment in the biotechnology sector, challenges remain in the funding ecosystem, such as the need for better coordination among government agencies and support for smaller, innovative breakthroughs.
