Hua Xia Shi Bao·2025-07-16 08:14Core Viewpoint - The overdue payment of 180 million yuan by Betta Pharmaceuticals to Yifang Biotech for the innovative lung cancer drug, Beifu Tian, has highlighted the survival pressures faced by both companies and raised concerns about the credit system in the innovative drug industry [1][9]. Group 1: Payment Dispute Details - Yifang Biotech disclosed that Betta Pharmaceuticals has owed 180 million yuan for nearly two years, despite multiple communications and a formal payment reminder sent at the end of 2024 [1][2]. - The cooperation agreement between Yifang Biotech and Betta Pharmaceuticals, established in December 2018, stipulated that Betta would pay a total of 230 million yuan in initial and milestone payments for the drug's development and commercialization [1][2]. - Betta Pharmaceuticals initially paid 55.3 million yuan in 2019, but subsequent milestone payments totaling 180 million yuan were delayed due to claims of "funding arrangements" [2][4]. Group 2: Financial Implications for Yifang Biotech - Yifang Biotech's revenue for 2024 was approximately 169 million yuan, entirely derived from technology licensing and cooperation, making the overdue payment critical for its funding [4][9]. - The company has recognized a bad debt provision of 18 million yuan, reflecting its expectation of non-receipt of the overdue payment [1][4]. Group 3: Financial Condition of Betta Pharmaceuticals - Betta Pharmaceuticals reported a revenue of 2.892 billion yuan and a net profit of 403 million yuan for 2024, with a year-on-year increase of 17.74% and 15.67%, respectively [7][8]. - The company has faced significant cash flow pressures, with a 37.23% decrease in cash reserves to 472 million yuan by the end of 2024, and a current ratio below 1 for three consecutive years [7][8]. Group 4: Market Competition and Challenges - Beifu Tian, as a third-generation EGFR inhibitor, faces intense competition from established products like Osimertinib and Aumolertinib, which has impacted its market performance [5][6]. - The sales performance of Betta's other products has also been under pressure, with significant declines in sales growth and profit margins [5][6]. Group 5: Industry Credit System Concerns - The overdue payment issue has sparked discussions about the credit system in the innovative drug industry, emphasizing the need for transparency and trust in business collaborations [9][10]. - Experts have pointed out the risks associated with unclear contract terms and the importance of financial planning and trust in maintaining long-term partnerships [10].