China-based Sinocelltech Group Ltd (SHA: 688520) has officially commercialized its biosimilar version of AbbVie’s (NYSE: ABBV) Humira (adalimumab), marking a significant milestone in the Chinese biosimilar market. The company has delivered the first batch of the biosimilar product, achieving commercialization in less than two weeks following regulatory approval.
Humira’s Global and Chinese Market Presence
Humira, a blockbuster drug for treating various autoimmune diseases, was first approved globally in the US in 2002 and made its way to China in 2010. The drug was included in the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) in 2021, with all indications covered, making it more accessible to patients in China.
Competition in the Biosimilar Market
Prior to Sinocelltech’s entry, six Humira biosimilars had already been approved in China, manufactured by notable companies such as Bio-Thera, BioRay, Henlius, Sino Bio, Junshi/Mabwell, and Innovent. The addition of Sinocelltech’s biosimilar to the market intensifies competition, potentially driving down costs and increasing options for patients in need of this critical treatment.-Fineline Info & Tech
