China with its strong innovation platform, government support, regulatory reforms and availability of talent and capital is fast emerging as a world leader in biotech. Making the transition from generic drug manufacturing to developing first-in-class medicines, the biotech sector is beginning to contribute significantly to China’s economy. Chinese companies such as Chi-med and Beigene are racking up drug approvals from international regulatory authorities, while Shanghai’s biotech-dedicated STAR exchange and domestic/international technology incubators indicate towards a robust and functional healthcare industry ecosystem.