Chinese smart manufacturing hub Qiantang District leverages AI to drive pharmaceutical innovation

Core Viewpoint - The "AI Plus" initiative in Zhejiang Province, particularly in Qiantang District, is significantly advancing the biomedical engineering sector, with a focus on integrating artificial intelligence into drug development processes [1][3][10]. Industry Overview - Hangzhou Biopharma Town in Qiantang District is a central hub for the biomedical and medical device industry, housing over 1,800 biomedical enterprises and currently having 90 innovative drugs in clinical trials [3][12]. - The district has attracted major pharmaceutical companies, including 7 of the world's top 10, and has a biomedical output value accounting for approximately 50% of Hangzhou's total [12]. AI Integration in Drug Development - AI technology is revolutionizing drug development by significantly reducing the time and cost associated with bringing new drugs to market, with MindRank reporting a reduction of 1.5 to 3 years and over 50% in early R&D costs [4][6]. - The use of AI allows for faster and more accurate screening of molecules, enabling the discovery of original molecules and new treatment ideas for previously intractable diseases [6][7]. Infrastructure and Support - Qiantang District has established a robust industrial foundation with 15 large model projects and over 18 AI research platforms, fostering a closed-loop biomedical industry chain that integrates AI into every stage of drug R&D [13][10]. - High-level scientific and technological innovation platforms, such as Zhejiang University's Innovation Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, are providing full-cycle AI innovation services to enterprises [14][15]. Future Prospects - Qiantang District aims to enhance its industrial policies and ecological systems to transform Hangzhou Biopharma Town into a national industrial landmark, anticipating a significant breakthrough in biomedical technologies [17].