Recent developments
Capacity build-out
Manufacturing capacity expanded with Novo Nordisk’s Athlone facility expansion to scale oral GLP‑1s. Johnson & Johnson announced a $1 billion cell therapy manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania. AGC Biologics’ Seattle facility earned Anvisa GMP certification, enabling supply to Brazil and strengthening cross‑regional biologics distribution.
Oncology regulatory moves
In oncology, the LITESPARK‑022 trial backed FDA Priority Review for KEYTRUDA+WELIREG adjuvant RCC; a separate study showed benefit with WELIREG+LENVIMA post–anti‑PD‑1/L1. HERNEXEOS (zongertinib) gained accelerated approval in HER2‑mutant NSCLC, while Venclexta+acalabrutinib was approved for previously untreated CLL.
GLP‑1 and oral delivery
Lilly’s ACHIEVE‑3 trial found oral orforglipron superior to oral semaglutide on A1C and weight. The EU approved a higher 7.2 mg Wegovy dose; Novo Nordisk also formed a collaboration to develop next‑generation oral biologic medicines. Novo Nordisk reported mixed obesity readouts, including strong weight loss in a phase 2 China trial of triple agonist UBT251.
Deals and realignment
Asahi Kasei moved to acquire Aicuris for €780 million and expanded autoimmune discovery via Alchemedicine’s HiSAP platform. Boehringer obtained an exclusive license from Sitryx for a preclinical immunology program. CABB’s sale of Jayhawk Fine Chemicals redirected assets toward Pharma and Life Science specialties.
Sustainability and delivery
WuXi Biologics was listed in the S&P Global Sustainability Yearbook 2026, highlighting ESG performance among CDMOs. The FDA approved a monthly dosing schedule for RYBREVANT FASPRO, and the EU enabled additional subcutaneous regimens, reducing administration time. The EU deployed pre‑commercial procurement to advance next‑generation influenza vaccines through clinical development.