China Liver Cancer Drug Market Growth & Trends
The China liver cancer drug market size is expected to reach USD 769.09 million by 2030, registering a CAGR of 20.6% from 2024 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is driven by the increasing incidence of liver cancer. As one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in China, the disease presents a substantial public health challenge. According to GLOBOCAN, in 2022, there were approximately 367,657 new cases reported in China, making it the fourth most common cancer in the country, accounting for 7.6% of all new cancer cases. The rising number of cases is attributed to various factors, including high rates of hepatitis B and C infections, alcohol consumption, and other lifestyle-related risk factors. This surge in prevalence necessitates the demand for effective treatment options, thereby accelerating market growth for liver cancer drugs in the region.
Advancements in treatment modalities and improved early diagnostic practices are also critical factors contributing to the growth of the market in China. Progress in targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and combination treatments has enhanced the overall efficacy of liver cancer management, leading to better patient outcomes. Additionally, growing awareness, growing drug approvals, and the adoption of early diagnostic techniques have facilitated timely intervention, which is crucial for improving survival rates. These advancements not only broaden the therapeutic landscape but also create opportunities for pharmaceutical companies to introduce innovative and effective drugs.
Furthermore, the market is expected to benefit from rising healthcare expenditure and increased investment in research and development (R&D). Technological innovations in medical research and government initiatives aimed at improving access to care are playing a vital role in driving market expansion. China’s healthcare policies have increasingly focused on enhancing cancer care infrastructure and supporting clinical research, which fosters an environment conducive to market growth. The combination of these factors is expected to sustain a robust demand for liver cancer drugs throughout the forecast period.
Some of the key players in the market are BeiGene, Chi-Med, Innovent Biologics, LianBio, Hengrui Medicine, Jiangsu Chia Tai Tianqing Pharmaceutical, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Roche, Merck & Co., Pfizer, Novartis, AstraZeneca and others. These players are involved in various strategic initiatives such as product launches and approval in order to cater to a global clientele. For instance, in February 2022, HUTCHMED initiated a Phase Ib/II clinical study of HMPL-453, a selective FGFR inhibitor, in combination with chemotherapy or toripalimab, a PD-1 inhibitor, for the treatment of patients with advanced solid tumors in China. The study aims to assess the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of these combinations in treating patients with advanced cancers, including intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (IHCC). This combination approach is intended to enhance therapeutic impact by simultaneously targeting different mechanisms involved in tumor growth and immune evasion. The trial marks a significant step in developing novel combination therapies for difficult-to-treat cancers.
China Liver Cancer Drug Market Report Highlights
- Based on the drug, the targeted therapy segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 53.10% in 2023. This high share is attributable to advances in molecular biology and genomics which have enabled the development of therapies tailored to specific genetic mutations and biomarkers associated with various cancers, increasing their effectiveness
- Based on type, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounted for the largest revenue share of 37.41% in 2023. This growth is attributed to the high prevalence and mortality rates associated with HCC are prompting extensive research and development efforts to discover effective treatments
- Based on the distribution channel, hospital pharmacies dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 45.60% in 2023. As the primary point of care for liver cancer patients, hospitals are better equipped with the necessary infrastructure and medical expertise to manage complex therapies and monitor patient responses closely