疫苗价格暴跌90%，行业协会坐不住了！

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese vaccine industry is experiencing a severe price war, leading to significant price drops, with some vaccines falling over 90% in price, prompting the China Vaccine Industry Association to call for an end to the price competition to avoid unsustainable costs [1][3]. Group 1: Price Decline and Industry Impact - The price of common vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, has plummeted to about 1/10 of previous prices, with three-valent vaccines previously priced around 60 yuan now being offered as low as 6.5 yuan [3]. - The HPV vaccine has also seen drastic price reductions, with Watson Bio's two-valent HPV vaccine dropping nearly 90% over three years, resulting in significant profit declines for leading vaccine companies, with net profits falling by 70%-90% last year [3][4]. - In the first three quarters of this year, 10 out of 14 publicly listed vaccine companies in China reported profit declines, with over 70% experiencing this trend, and 5 companies are currently operating at a loss [3]. Group 2: Causes of Price Decline - The decline in birth rates has reduced the market size for vaccines, particularly affecting those targeting infants, while competition among manufacturers has intensified, leading to price cuts due to a lack of product differentiation [4]. - The approval of 59 flu vaccine products has resulted in oversupply, with 40% of flu vaccines going unsold and subsequently wasted last year, forcing companies to sell at a loss [4]. Group 3: Long-term Implications for Public Health - While lower vaccine prices may seem beneficial for consumers, the long-term impact on innovation and quality is concerning, as companies may lack the financial incentive to invest in new vaccine development [6]. - The risk of using cheaper raw materials to maintain low prices could compromise vaccine quality, posing a threat to public health [6]. - The industry must balance price reductions with the need for effective and safe vaccines, as the focus should not solely be on affordability but also on health outcomes [6]. Group 4: Strategies for Industry Recovery - Vaccine companies are increasingly looking to expand into emerging markets in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa, with companies like Wantai Biologics significantly increasing their export volumes [8]. - Chinese vaccine firms are moving beyond simple product exports to include technology licensing and localized production, which helps them navigate trade barriers and integrate into local markets [8]. - Achieving international certifications is crucial for these companies, indicating that their quality management systems meet global standards, which is essential for future growth in the global vaccine market projected to reach $86.2 billion by 2032 [8].