By John Meyer, consultant in financial affairs – Eurasia Business News, March 21, 2025. Article No 1455.

AstraZeneca has announced plans to invest $2.5 billion in China over the next five years, despite ongoing investigations into the company’s operations in the country. This significant investment will be used to establish a new research and development (R&D) center in Beijing, marking the company’s second such facility in China after one in Shanghai. The R&D center will focus on early-stage research and include an artificial intelligence and data science laboratory, aiming to capitalize on Beijing’s advanced life sciences ecosystem and collaborate with local biotech firms.

Key Aspects of the Investment

R&D Center in Beijing: The new facility will be AstraZeneca’s sixth global R&D center and will play a crucial role in the company’s mission to deliver innovative treatments worldwide. It will collaborate with cutting-edge biology and AI research in Beijing.

Partnerships with Local Biotech Companies: AstraZeneca has entered into agreements with Harbour BioMed and Syneron Bio to develop multispecific antibodies and macro-cyclic peptides, respectively. Additionally, it has formed a joint venture with BioKangtai to develop vaccines for respiratory and infectious diseases.

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Commitment to China: Despite recent controversies, including the detention of AstraZeneca’s former China president and ongoing probes into the company’s operations, CEO Pascal Soriot emphasized AstraZeneca’s continued commitment to China. The investment underscores the company’s confidence in Beijing’s life sciences ecosystem and its potential for collaboration.

Workforce Expansion: The investment is expected to increase AstraZeneca’s workforce in Beijing to 1,700 employees, up from 1,100 currently.

Background and Context

AstraZeneca has faced challenges in China, including investigations into alleged medical-insurance fraud and illegal drug imports by some of its current and former employees. However, the company remains committed to the Chinese market, which accounted for about 12% of its revenue last year. 

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This investment is part of AstraZeneca’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in China and leverage the country’s growing biotech sector for global innovation.

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© Copyright 2025 – Eurasia Business News. Article no. 1455.