Multi‐perspective analysis of the Chinese pharmaceutical sector

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyze the Chinese pharmaceutical sector through three levels: policy level, enterprise level, and technology level. Design/methodology/approach The authors explore the environmental impacts, which include political, social, and economic factors, study enterprise‐level strategies on international technology transfer and carry out a trend analysis on the technology development in the Chinese pharmaceutical industry. Findings The results indicate that China is emerging in the biopharmaceutical industry. While there are several steps to be taken at different levels, including policy, enterprise, and technology, the country is presenting a potential for the future. The paper outlines the gaps in each area. Originality/value The paper provides a very good outline against which any emerging economy could review its potential in the pharmaceutical industry.