The main priorities for the new chief executive of Japan’s drugs regulator over the next five years include putting patients first by promoting early access while ensuring safety, further strengthening pharmacovigilance as new forms of therapy come through, and increasing collaboration with Asia, as the agency looks to meet the challenges of changing technologies.

First-line lung cancer approval will expand potential market for Takeda's ALK contender but the latecomer is also facing some well-established class competition in the setting.

US venture raises new funds from Asia partners as it builds a direct presence in China to develop its oncology portfolio.