Working with Chinese CROs: Benefits, Risks, and Best Practices with Harri Järveläinen
Nicholas Capman, CEO of The FDA Group, welcomes Harri Järveläinen, an independent consultant specializing in non-clinical and regulatory affairs, to discuss the realities of working with Chinese Contract Research Organizations. With over 20 years in the pharmaceutical industry—including experience with AstraZeneca and in Chinese biotech—Harri shares first-hand insights on selecting and managing Chinese CRO partnerships while addressing common misconceptions.
Chinese CROs have evolved significantly over the past two decades. Initially focused on medicinal chemistry, they have expanded into full-service providers across all areas of preclinical development. Government support in the mid-2010s fueled rapid growth, leading to an industry that today services both domestic and international clients, including many U.S. biotech and pharmaceutical companies. While some remain hesitant about working with Chinese providers, many of these organizations now operate at a level of quality that rivals their Western counterparts.
Regulatory compliance is a key consideration when selecting a CRO. Many of the largest Chinese CROs undergo regular inspections from the U.S. FDA and OECD, ensuring adherence to global standards. For sponsors evaluating potential partners, it is critical to review their inspection history and any recent Form 483 letters to identify potential regulatory risks. Harri emphasizes that working with well-established providers mitigates concerns about compliance and operational transparency.
Many companies are drawn to Chinese CROs due to their cost-effectiveness, faster turnaround times, and unique capabilities. During the pandemic, pricing disparities between U.S. and Chinese CROs were extreme, with some U.S. providers charging up to ten times more. Today, the cost advantage remains significant, particularly for studies involving research primates. Faster lead times also make Chinese CROs attractive, as some studies that take six months in the U.S. can be completed in just two months in China. Certain specialized studies, such as continuous infusion studies in rodents or research involving obese primates, are more commonly performed in China than in the U.S. or Europe.
While concerns about intellectual property remain, Harri argues that they are largely outdated. Past issues, particularly in the early 2000s, created lasting skepticism, but established CROs today have stringent protocols in place to protect client data. Language barriers present a more tangible challenge. English proficiency among younger study directors has declined in recent years, making communication more difficult. Many CROs now assign English-speaking project managers to facilitate interactions and ensure smooth collaboration.
Regulatory uncertainty is another area of concern. The pending Biosecure Act has raised questions about the future of U.S.-China collaborations in life sciences, but Harri clarifies that current discussions primarily focus on manufacturing rather than non-clinical or clinical research. The U.S. FDA continues to evaluate Chinese CROs based on performance and compliance rather than geopolitical factors.
For companies considering working with a Chinese CRO, Harri advises starting with well-established providers that have a strong track record and regular FDA inspections. Conducting audits before engagement and maintaining oversight throughout the study process is essential. Cultural differences, particularly around work expectations and communication styles, should also be accounted for to ensure smooth collaboration.
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