Oncolytic Therapies in China: Laying the Groundwork for a Successful Launch

OBJECTIVES: To determine the policy changes and market access implications and best practices of oncology products in China. The aim of this study is to determine how to best position oncology drug launches given the frequency of updates in the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) to be more inclusive of innovative western oncolytic medicine that can be accessed within China. This study will also help form access strategies of oncolytic products based on examples.

METHODS: Through secondary research, we will look at the new policy changes (updates directly from the Chinese Government). Through qualitative research with key stakeholders, we will interpret the evolving market landscape and understand the implications of pricing and reimbursement of oncology products in China. Lastly, we will perform quantitative research analyzing the price changes pre-and post- NRDL negotiation of oncology products.

RESULTS: Our research compared key differences of the overall oncology market in China and other western markets. Additionally, the research identified key opportunities and challenges in the evolving market access landscape of oncolytic therapies in China which can be used to formulate a successful market access strategy. Lastly, the research will generate recommendations for western pharmaceutical companies on product/indication prioritization, key factors influencing access strategies via public reimbursement and private insurance reimbursement.

CONCLUSIONS: The Chinese government emphasize on improving access of oncolytic therapies as demonstrated in NRDL negotiations in recent years. As a result, oncolytic therapies have relative advantages compared with other therapeutic areas in terms of demonstrating a perceived stronger value proposition by the central government. Successful planning and implementation of new oncolytic product launch strategies in China requires in-depth and agile understanding of the market to precisely position the product and seize the opportunities.