Only three of 40 qualified international drug firms won in the latest round of China's central bidding process, showing a toughening environment. But some companies are seemingly determined not to lower prices any further.

China’s favorite domestic drug maker seems to have a warning for the industry - innovate or halt. After the recent round of “4+7” centralized procurement saw some off-patent drugs priced at pennies, the leading Chinese firm Hengrui has decided to halve its generics portfolio to focus on innovative new drugs.

China’s favorite domestic drug maker seems to have a warning for the industry - innovate or halt. After the recent round of “4+7” centralized procurement saw some off-patent drugs priced at pennies, the leading Chinese firm Hengrui has decided to halve its generics portfolio to focus on innovative new drugs.

A recent trade group report points to a rising and alarming "Buy China" trend in procurement rounds in the country. Although largely in medical device bidding, it may potentially affect the pharma sector, an analysis from the recent “4+7” centralized bidding scheme show.