Already producing a broader range of biologics than any biotech firm in the world, from antibodies via plasma products to testing assays to vaccines, the state-owned China National Biotec Group is becoming even bigger with policy support and one surprising helper: the coronavirus pandemic. But might it face challenges from innovators and foreign firms in a changing environment?

Clearance by UK regulator allows trial to restart, with pivotal US trial hoped to follow suit to keep AstraZeneca and Oxford's candidate on track for a potential late 2020 readout. Plus, new results with Sinovac's vaccine in the elderly and progress with antibodies.

Already producing a broader range of biologics than any biotech firm in the world, from antibodies via plasma products to testing assays to vaccines, the state-owned China National Biotec Group is becoming even bigger with policy support and one surprising helper: the coronavirus pandemic. But might it face challenges from innovators and foreign firms in a changing environment?

Over 100,000 people in China have already been inoculated with Sinopharm's COVID-19 vaccine under an EUA. Meanwhile, the country's regulatory agency has conducted an internal audit of the vaccines oversight process, and is drawing up guidance on the use of real world evidence for pediatric drugs.