Zhong Guo Jing Ying Bao·2025-07-04 05:14Core Viewpoint - The delayed payment of 180 million yuan by Betta Pharmaceuticals to Yifang Biologics for milestone payments related to the drug Beifuzi has raised concerns about the financial health and operational integrity of both companies [1][2][5]. Company Overview - Yifang Biologics developed Beifuzi, a first-in-class innovative drug for lung cancer, and granted commercial rights to Betta Pharmaceuticals in December 2018 [2][3]. - Betta Pharmaceuticals was supposed to pay a total of 230 million yuan in milestone payments based on the drug's development progress, which includes regulatory approvals for various treatment indications [2][4]. Financial Performance - Yifang Biologics reported zero revenue from 2020 to 2022, but began generating income in 2023, totaling 186 million yuan, primarily from technical authorization and cooperation [4][8]. - As of the end of 2023, Yifang Biologics had accounts receivable of 186 million yuan, with a provision for bad debts of 9.29 million yuan, indicating reliance on Betta Pharmaceuticals for revenue [4][5]. Payment Delays - Betta Pharmaceuticals has delayed payments for two years, with the outstanding amount of 180 million yuan due to its own financial management considerations [5][10]. - The company has acknowledged the overdue payments and stated that it will fulfill its obligations according to the agreement [5][7]. Market Competition - Beifuzi's market entry is hindered by its later approval compared to competitors like Osimertinib and Alectinib, which have annual sales in the range of 3 to 4 billion yuan [8][9]. - Yifang Biologics has reported sales-related income from Beifuzi of approximately 5.53 million yuan in 2023 and 16.38 million yuan in 2024, indicating a significant gap in sales compared to established competitors [8][9]. Financial Health of Betta Pharmaceuticals - As of the end of 2024, Betta Pharmaceuticals had cash reserves of 472 million yuan, down from 752 million yuan at the beginning of the year, reflecting a decline in liquidity [10]. - The company's current ratio has been below 1 for three consecutive years, indicating a potential decline in short-term solvency [10].