Biopharmaceuticals

— Latest update: August 2024 —

With the world’s highest proportion of the elderly (nearly 30% in 2024), the number of patients with cancer and other diseases is expected to increase in Japan. It is the third largest pharmaceutical market in the world, and the biologically active substances (biopharmaceuticals) are considered to be the driving force behind innovation in this industry. In 2021, the Japanese biopharmaceutical market value was estimated at 2,1 trillion yen. Even though the pharmaceutical market growth is projected to be negative, the biopharmaceutical sector is expected to grow. The Japanese government targets 3.3 trillion yen of the Japanese biopharmaceutical market. In addition, the average annual growth rate for biopharmaceuticals is expected to be as high as 9.6% from 2019 to 2026. In addition, Keidanren has initiated a ‘biotransformation strategy’ in 2023, initiating projects that will support and promote bio-medicine.

EU-Japan Centre, The Biopharmaceuticals sector in Japan, 2019
EU-Japan Centre, Latest trends in biotechnology research in Japan, 2021
JETRO, Life Science Report, 2022
International Trade Administration, Japan-Pharmaceuticals, 2022
Cabinet Office, Paper on Aging Society, 2024                                                     
METI, Road map of Biopharmaceutical market, 2024  
METI, Enhancement of Bio CMO/CDMO 
Keidanren, BX for sustainable future, 2023

> For more information about the Japanese pharmaceutical market, laws, and regulations, click here

Table of Contents

• Collaborative Opportunities
• Regenerative Medicine
• Gene Therapy
• Blood Substitutes
• Vaccines
• Antibody and Peptide-based Drugs
• Biosimilars
• Expert Reports & Webinars
• Annual Report
• Further Reading
• Relevant Organisations and Trade Fairs