News

July 17, 2025

Innovation cluster grows as Waigaoqiao lures biotech leaders

The recent Tongji Healthcare Entrepreneurship and Development Forum highlighted four high-quality medical innovation projects from the Tongji ecosystem. Waigaoqiao Biopharmaceutical Company actively explored collaboration opportunities during the roadshow, engaging in in-depth discussions with various stakeholders.  

Among the featured projects, Dongmai Medical specializes in CDMO+CRO services for medical devices, helping companies accelerate regulatory approvals. GD Kongming focuses on pioneering universal allogeneic γδ-T cell therapies, positioning itself at the forefront of cell therapy innovation. A research team from Tongji Medical College presented an antimalarial vaccine that fills a critical gap in China’s infectious disease prevention efforts. Meanwhile, Xinyu Health introduced an AI-powered academic assistant system designed to support clinicians in research and decision-making. Waigaoqiao Biopharmaceutical Company plans to invite project teams for on-site evaluations to facilitate commercialization.  

Leveraging the policy advantages of the Waigaoqiao Free Trade Zone, the region has already attracted over 800 biopharmaceutical companies, forming a diverse industrial cluster. In the cell and gene therapy sector, the Cell and Gene Therapy Alliance (CGTA), initiated by more than 20 leading companies, is accelerating the translation of CAR-T, mRNA, and other advanced technologies.

In brain-computer interface development, StairMed Technology has utilized streamlined customs policies to import cutting-edge equipment for neural signal research. For medical device localization, Smith & Nephew has partnered with Flex to apply for entrusted production licenses for endoscope camera systems, driving industry upgrades and domestic innovation.  

Looking ahead, Waigaoqiao Biopharmaceutical Company will prioritize support for cell and gene therapy as well as the localization of imported medical devices, offering end-to-end regulatory guidance to help companies overcome technical and approval challenges. The company also plans to deepen collaboration with Tongji University, exploring opportunities in industry-academia translation and joint clinical validation centers to foster the development of a world-class biopharmaceutical cluster.