Core Viewpoint - Rongchang Biopharmaceutical has signed an agreement with Santen Pharmaceutical for the exclusive development, production, and commercialization rights of its innovative drug RC28-E in several Asian markets, marking a significant step in China's ophthalmic drug innovation [1][3][4]. Group 1: Agreement Details - The agreement grants Santen exclusive rights in Greater China, South Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Malaysia for the drug RC28-E, which targets ocular neovascular diseases [1]. - Rongchang will receive an upfront payment of 250 million RMB, with potential milestone payments totaling up to 5.2 billion RMB for development and regulatory achievements, and up to 5.25 billion RMB for sales milestones [1]. - Additionally, Rongchang will earn a tiered sales royalty based on product sales in the authorized regions, ranging from high single-digit to double-digit percentages [1]. Group 2: Product Information - RC28-E is a dual-target fusion protein drug that addresses VEGF/FGF pathways, currently in Phase III clinical trials for treating major ocular diseases such as Diabetic Macular Edema (DME) and Wet Age-related Macular Degeneration (wAMD) [4]. - The company plans to submit a marketing application for DME in the second half of 2025 and for wAMD by mid-2026 in China [4]. Group 3: Strategic Implications - The collaboration with Santen, which has over 130 years of expertise in ophthalmology and a strong sales network across more than 60 countries, is expected to maximize the potential of RC28-E and provide innovative solutions for retinal disease treatment [3][4]. - This partnership signifies a shift in China's pharmaceutical landscape, moving from a "follower" to a "leader" in the global value chain of ophthalmic drugs [1][7]. Group 4: Recent Achievements - Rongchang has previously made significant strides in international collaborations, including granting global rights for its ADC drug to Seagen, with potential revenues reaching 2.6 billion USD, and a recent deal with Vor Biopharma for another innovative product, totaling 4.23 billion USD [5][7]. - These milestones highlight the rapid innovation and industrial strength of Chinese pharmaceuticals on the global stage [7].