Soochow Securities·2026-03-01 08:52Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Overweight" rating for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sector [1] Core Insights - The upcoming adjustment of the National Essential Medicines List (NEML) is expected to benefit traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) stocks, with a focus on companies like Zhaoli Pharmaceutical, Fangsheng Pharmaceutical, and Panlong Pharmaceutical [2][17][22] - The report ranks sub-sectors in the following order of preference: innovative drugs > research services > CXO > TCM > medical devices > pharmacies [2][11] - Historical data indicates that products included in the NEML tend to experience significant sales growth, as seen with Zhaoli Pharmaceutical's Wuling Capsule, which saw sales growth rates increase from -12.82% in 2017 to 32.52% in 2021 after being included in the NEML [19][22] Summary by Sections Investment Highlights - The report suggests focusing on TCM stocks due to the imminent NEML adjustments, recommending Zhaoli Pharmaceutical, Fangsheng Pharmaceutical, and Panlong Pharmaceutical [2][17] - The report emphasizes the importance of the NEML adjustments, which have not occurred in eight years, and the potential for TCM products to gain market share [22] R&D Progress and Company Dynamics - Recent approvals and submissions include Sanofi's Dupilumab for new indications and GSK's hepatitis B therapy application in Japan [5] - The report highlights various companies across different therapeutic areas, including innovative drugs, ADCs, and small nucleic acids, suggesting a diversified investment approach [13][22] Market Performance - The A-share pharmaceutical index has shown a year-to-date increase of 3.0%, with notable performances from specific stocks such as Aidi Te (+36.9%) and Wanze Shares (+27.5%) [10] - The report notes that the medical sector has seen varied performance, with biopharmaceuticals and medical devices showing positive trends, while chemical pharmaceuticals and medical services have faced declines [10]