China challenges US in AI drug race, but rivals still reliant on each other

South China Morning PostEN 1 min read 100% complete by Julie ZhangJanuary 20, 2026 at 01:30 AM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

China is emerging as a competitor to the US in the field of AI-driven drug discovery, according to Leung Chuen-yan, a private equity investor. While both countries utilize similar AI methodologies in drug development, a truly multimodal AI model capable of integrating diverse data types globally is still lacking. US pharmaceutical companies are increasingly relying on Chinese clinical data, reflecting growing trust in its alignment with global datasets. Chinese biotech firms are also collaborating with international pharmaceutical companies to commercialize their drugs in global markets. This reliance highlights the interconnectedness of the US and China in advancing AI-driven drug discovery despite their competition.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Leung Chun-ying 40% Value Partners Group 60% Hong Kong ×260% United States ×280% Leung Chuen-yan ×380% China ×390%

Keywords

ai drug discovery 100% artificial intelligence 90% china 80% us 70% clinical data 60% pharmaceutical 60% clinical trials 50% biotech 40% data collection 40%