Core Viewpoint - Four pharmaceutical companies, including Tianjin Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Tianjin Pharma), Zhejiang Xianju Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Xianju Pharma), Jiangsu Lianhuan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (Lianhuan Pharma), and Xi'an Guokang Ruijin Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., were fined a total of 362 million yuan for price-fixing of dexamethasone raw materials, with Tianjin Pharma being penalized for the fourth time for similar monopolistic behavior [1][2][4]. Group 1: Companies Involved - Tianjin Pharma, Xianju Pharma, Lianhuan Pharma, and Xi'an Guokang Ruijin Pharma were involved in a price-fixing scheme for dexamethasone, leading to a significant increase in prices from 8,000 yuan/kg to 13,000 yuan/kg between February 2022 and March 2024 [2][4]. - Tianjin Pharma has a history of monopolistic practices, having been penalized multiple times since 2021 for various violations of antitrust laws [4][5]. - Lianhuan Pharma's fine represents 72.53% of its net profit, significantly impacting its financial performance [6][8]. Group 2: Regulatory Actions - The Tianjin Municipal Market Supervision Administration imposed fines based on the companies' previous year's sales, totaling 355 million yuan, along with confiscation of illegal gains [2][7]. - The regulatory body emphasized the importance of maintaining fair competition in the pharmaceutical sector and indicated a commitment to stricter enforcement of antitrust laws [2][4]. - Lianhuan Pharma has submitted a hearing request to reduce its penalties, but the regulatory authority rejected its arguments, affirming the validity of the evidence against the company [7]. Group 3: Financial Impact - Lianhuan Pharma reported revenues of 2.174 billion yuan and 2.160 billion yuan for 2023 and 2024, respectively, with net profits declining by 4.5% and 37.66% [6][8]. - The fine imposed on Lianhuan Pharma will reduce its net profit for 2025 by approximately 61.04 million yuan [8]. - Tianjin Pharma's market influence is significant, with a strong presence in the domestic market for steroid hormone raw materials [5].

Core Viewpoint - The National Market Supervision Administration has imposed a total fine of 355 million yuan on four pharmaceutical companies for colluding to raise the price of dexamethasone phosphate raw materials, which saw a price increase of up to 282 times [1] Group 1: Companies Involved - Four companies involved in the price-fixing scheme include Tianjin Pharmaceutical Co., Jiangsu Lianhuan Pharmaceutical Co., Xi'an Guokang Ruijin Pharmaceutical Co., and Zhejiang Xianju Pharmaceutical Co. [1] - The organizer of the collusion, identified as Guo, was fined the maximum amount of 5 million yuan, while four responsible individuals from the companies were fined 600,000 yuan each [1] Group 2: Price Increases - Dexamethasone phosphate raw material prices were raised significantly, with Tianjin Pharmaceutical increasing prices from 9,000 yuan/kg to 13,800 yuan/kg, and Xi'an Guokang Ruijin raising prices from 7,900 yuan/kg to between 10,000 and 38,000 yuan/kg [1] - Zhejiang Xianju Pharmaceutical raised prices from 8,200 yuan/kg to 10,000 yuan/kg, while Jiangsu Lianhuan increased prices from 7,800 yuan/kg to 15,000 yuan/kg [1] Group 3: Market Impact - The collusion led to a severe market supply shortage, with the price of dexamethasone phosphate injection skyrocketing from 0.35 yuan per dose to 98.76 yuan per dose, marking a staggering increase of 282 times [1] - As of March 7, 2024, the monopolistic pricing of dexamethasone phosphate raw materials was still being enforced [1] Group 4: Legal Consequences - The total illegal gains from the price-fixing scheme were calculated as follows: Tianjin Pharmaceutical Co. 42,764,400 yuan, Zhejiang Xianju Pharmaceutical Co. 23,746,680 yuan, Xi'an Guokang Ruijin Pharmaceutical Co. 24,763,156 yuan, and Jiangsu Lianhuan Pharmaceutical Co. 17,899,200 yuan [1] - The fines imposed on the four companies amounted to 355 million yuan, which includes the confiscation of illegal gains and an additional penalty of 8% of the previous year's sales [1]

Core Viewpoint - The recent antitrust penalty imposed on Lianhuan Pharmaceutical for price-fixing of dexamethasone raw materials has significant financial implications, with the fine amounting to over 72% of the company's net profit from the previous year [2][5]. Antitrust Violation - Lianhuan Pharmaceutical, along with other companies, engaged in a price-fixing agreement to stop price competition and jointly raise prices for dexamethasone, violating the Anti-Monopoly Law of the People's Republic of China [3][4]. - The investigation revealed that the companies involved had a meeting in November 2021 to establish this agreement, which led to a dramatic price increase of dexamethasone injection from 0.35 yuan to 98.76 yuan, a rise of nearly 282 times [4][5]. Financial Impact - The total fines for the involved companies reached 326 million yuan, with Lianhuan Pharmaceutical specifically fined 61.04 million yuan, which is 72.53% of its net profit from the previous year [5][6]. - The penalty will reduce Lianhuan Pharmaceutical's net profit for 2025 by 61.04 million yuan, significantly impacting its financial performance [6]. Company Performance - Lianhuan Pharmaceutical has experienced a decline in net profit, with projections showing a drop from 135 million yuan in 2023 to 84 million yuan in 2024, a decrease of 37.66% [7][8]. - The company's revenue for 2023 and 2024 is projected at 2.174 billion yuan and 2.160 billion yuan, respectively, indicating a slight decline [8]. R&D Investment - The company has significantly increased its R&D expenditures, from 66 million yuan in 2021 to 155 million yuan in 2024, which has pressured profit margins [9]. - Lianhuan Pharmaceutical is shifting focus towards high-end formulations and innovative drugs, which has led to increased R&D costs but has not yet translated into higher profits [9][10]. Financing Challenges - Lianhuan Pharmaceutical has faced difficulties in securing external financing for its innovative drug projects, leading to a reliance on loans, which may increase its financial burden [9][10]. - The company attempted to raise funds through convertible bonds and private placements, but both plans were ultimately terminated due to market conditions and operational realities [10].

Group 1 - The company involved is Tianjin Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., which is engaged in the production of pharmaceuticals, veterinary drugs, cosmetics, and food additives [1][2] - The company and its representatives are accused of violating the Anti-Monopoly Law by engaging in monopolistic behavior with competitors [2][3] - The investigation was initiated based on a tip-off from the State Administration for Market Regulation, leading to a formal inquiry into the company's practices [2][3] Group 2 - The primary product involved is Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate, a key raw material for producing Dexamethasone injection, which is used for treating various inflammatory diseases and has been included in COVID-19 treatment protocols [4][6] - The company, along with three other competitors, was found to have a direct competitive relationship in the production and sale of this raw material [6][7] Group 3 - Evidence indicates that the company participated in a price-fixing agreement for Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate, which included a meeting on November 20, 2021, to discuss price increases and the cessation of price competition [7][8] - The company raised the price of Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate from 9,000 yuan per kilogram to 13,800 yuan per kilogram in February 2022, following the agreement [7][9] Group 4 - The company reported illegal earnings of 42,764,400 yuan from the price-fixing activities [9] - Following the investigation, the company applied for leniency and began to lower prices in June 2024, indicating a willingness to rectify its actions [10][13] Group 5 - The administrative penalties imposed include the confiscation of illegal earnings and a fine based on the company's sales revenue, with a total penalty amounting to 69,192,350.36 yuan [13][14] - The company's general manager, Liu Xin, was also fined 600,000 yuan for personal responsibility in the monopolistic practices [15]

Core Viewpoint - Jiangsu Lianhuan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. was fined approximately 61.04 million yuan for violating the Anti-Monopoly Law during the sale of the raw material dexamethasone phosphate sodium, marking a significant enforcement action under the revised law [1][2][4][5]. Summary by Relevant Sections Administrative Penalties - The total fines from this series of cases exceed 360 million yuan, with Lianhuan Pharmaceutical's fine being a substantial part of this total [7]. - Lianhuan Pharmaceutical was fined 61.04 million yuan, which includes the confiscation of illegal gains of 17.89 million yuan and a fine of approximately 43.14 million yuan based on 8% of its 2023 sales [4][8]. Case Background - The case involved four pharmaceutical companies colluding to raise prices of dexamethasone phosphate sodium, a critical drug for treating severe COVID-19 cases, leading to increased costs for patients and healthcare systems [8][10]. - The collusion lasted for about two and a half years, starting from November 20, 2021, when the agreement was made during a meeting organized by an individual named Guo [8][21]. Enforcement Trends - The case highlights a trend of stricter enforcement of anti-monopoly laws, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, where raw material monopolies have become a focus for regulatory bodies [10][11]. - The penalties reflect a dual approach of strict punishment for violations and incentives for compliance, as seen in the differentiated penalties based on cooperation with investigations [13][14]. Implications for the Industry - The case serves as a warning for pharmaceutical companies regarding the risks of horizontal agreements and the need for comprehensive compliance systems to prevent anti-competitive behavior [14]. - Companies are encouraged to establish internal reporting mechanisms and crisis response strategies to mitigate risks associated with anti-monopoly violations [14].

Core Viewpoint - The raw material pharmaceutical sector is under increased regulatory scrutiny due to antitrust actions, with Lianhuan Pharmaceutical facing significant penalties for price manipulation of Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate, impacting its financial performance and growth prospects [2][9][12]. Regulatory Actions - Lianhuan Pharmaceutical received an administrative penalty from the Tianjin Market Supervision Administration for participating in a price-fixing agreement, resulting in a total fine of 61.0382 million yuan [2][7]. - The fine represents 72.53% of the company's net profit for the last fiscal year, exacerbating its ongoing financial struggles [9][10]. Financial Impact - The penalty includes the confiscation of illegal gains amounting to 17.8992 million yuan and a fine based on 8% of the company's 2023 sales, which was reduced by 30% due to mitigating circumstances [7][9]. - Lianhuan Pharmaceutical's revenue and net profit have been declining for two consecutive years, with projected revenues of approximately 1.955 billion yuan, 2.174 billion yuan, and 2.16 billion yuan from 2022 to 2024, and corresponding net profits of 141 million yuan, 135 million yuan, and 84 million yuan [10][11]. Company Response - Following the incident, Lianhuan Pharmaceutical has taken steps to comply with antitrust regulations, including terminating improper practices and enhancing its compliance management system [8][12]. - The company has also faced challenges in raising capital, with two planned financing efforts being aborted, leading to a shift towards debt financing for its R&D projects [13][14]. Market Context - The case reflects a broader trend of intensified antitrust enforcement in China, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector, aimed at maintaining fair competition and protecting consumer interests [12].

Core Viewpoint - Three pharmaceutical companies, Xianju Pharmaceutical, Tianjin Pharmaceutical, and Lianhuan Pharmaceutical, have been penalized for monopolistic practices related to the raw material dexamethasone sodium phosphate, with total fines amounting to approximately 325 million yuan [1][2][3]. Group 1: Penalties and Financial Impact - Xianju Pharmaceutical was fined a total of approximately 195 million yuan, which includes the confiscation of illegal gains of 23.74 million yuan and a fine of about 172 million yuan based on 8% of its 2023 sales [2][5]. - Tianjin Pharmaceutical faced penalties totaling approximately 69.19 million yuan, including the confiscation of illegal gains of 42.76 million yuan and a reduced fine of about 13.2 million yuan after an 80% reduction [3][5]. - Lianhuan Pharmaceutical was fined approximately 61.04 million yuan, which includes the confiscation of illegal gains of 17.89 million yuan and a reduced fine of about 61.63 million yuan after a 30% reduction [3][5]. Group 2: Profitability Impact - The fines significantly impact the profitability of the companies, with Tianjin Pharmaceutical's penalties representing 2.15% of its recent audited revenue and 51.85% of its net profit attributable to shareholders [5]. - For Xianju Pharmaceutical, the total fine of 195 million yuan accounts for 4.87% of its projected 2024 revenue of 4 billion yuan and 49.17% of its net profit of 397 million yuan [5]. - Lianhuan Pharmaceutical's proposed fines represent 72.53% of its net profit of 84 million yuan for the previous year [5]. Group 3: Recurrence of Violations - Tianjin Pharmaceutical has been penalized for monopolistic behavior for the fourth time in four years, with cumulative fines exceeding 170 million yuan [6][7].

Core Viewpoint - A significant antitrust fine exceeding 350 million yuan has been imposed on four pharmaceutical companies for colluding to raise the price of dexamethasone phosphate sodium raw materials, with the fines totaling approximately 354 million yuan [1][6][11]. Group 1: Companies Involved - The companies involved in the antitrust case include Zhejiang Xianju Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Tianjin Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Jiangsu Lianhuan Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., and Xi'an Guokang Ruijin Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. [1][4][6] - Zhejiang Xianju Pharmaceutical received the highest penalty of approximately 195 million yuan, which includes the confiscation of illegal gains and a fine based on 8% of its 2023 sales [3][4]. - Tianjin Pharmaceutical was fined approximately 69.19 million yuan, while Jiangsu Lianhuan was fined around 61.04 million yuan [1][4]. Group 2: Details of the Antitrust Violations - The antitrust violations occurred over a period of two years and four months, during which the companies engaged in price-fixing and supply manipulation of dexamethasone phosphate sodium, a critical medication during the COVID-19 pandemic [5][7][9]. - The companies collectively agreed to raise prices and implemented a supply cut, leading to increased costs for downstream formulations [9][11]. - The price of dexamethasone phosphate sodium was raised significantly, with Xianju Pharmaceutical increasing its price from 8,200 yuan to 10,000 yuan per kilogram, and other companies following suit with similar price hikes [8][11]. Group 3: Individual Accountability - The antitrust enforcement agency has also pursued individual accountability, imposing fines on three company executives of 600,000 yuan each, and an additional 500,000 yuan fine on the individual who organized the collusion, Guo Xiangguo [10][12]. - This case marks a continuation of the trend towards holding individuals accountable for corporate antitrust violations, reinforcing the importance of compliance within the industry [12][13].

Core Viewpoint - The recent antitrust penalties against three pharmaceutical companies in China highlight the exploitation of market concentration to inflate drug prices, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, raising concerns about unethical practices in the industry [1][7]. Group 1: Antitrust Case Details - Tianjin Municipal Market Supervision Administration imposed a total fine of 326 million yuan on Tianjin Pharmaceutical, Jiangsu Lianhuan Pharmaceutical, and Xianju Pharmaceutical for colluding to manipulate the price of Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate [1][7]. - The price of Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate surged from approximately 7,900 yuan per kilogram in November 2021 to 45,000 yuan per kilogram by November 2023, indicating a significant price manipulation [1][5]. Group 2: Market Dynamics - The concentration of market competition is a key factor enabling these companies to control raw material and formulation prices, with the three companies holding four out of eight approved production licenses for Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate [3][4]. - The demand for Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate injections increased significantly during the pandemic, allowing companies to profit even as costs rose, leading to further price hikes [4][5]. Group 3: Regulatory Environment - The Chinese government has adopted a "zero tolerance" approach towards monopolistic behaviors in the pharmaceutical sector, as evidenced by the total fines of 1.772 billion yuan for antitrust cases in 2023 [7]. - The ongoing normalization of national medical insurance procurement and the enhancement of antitrust regulatory frameworks are expected to reduce the gray areas of vertical monopolies in the pharmaceutical industry [7].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the significant impact of antitrust penalties on the financial performance of Xianju Pharmaceutical and other companies involved in price-fixing agreements for dexamethasone phosphate raw materials during the COVID-19 pandemic [1][3]. Group 1: Antitrust Penalties - Xianju Pharmaceutical was fined 195 million yuan for monopolistic practices, which accounts for 4.88% of its 2024 revenue and 49.17% of its net profit [1]. - Tianyao Pharmaceutical and Lianhuan Pharmaceutical were also penalized, with fines of 69.19 million yuan and 61.04 million yuan, respectively [1]. - The companies formed a price alliance, raising the price of dexamethasone phosphate from 0.35 yuan to a peak of 98.76 yuan, an increase of nearly 282 times [1]. Group 2: Financial Impact on Companies - In 2024, Xianju Pharmaceutical's net profit fell by 29.46% to 397 million yuan, largely due to the antitrust fine [2][4]. - The cash flow from operating activities for Xianju Pharmaceutical decreased by 33.05%, and cash reserves dropped by 16.76% [4]. - Tianyao Pharmaceutical's revenue in 2024 was 3.215 billion yuan, down 15%, but its net profit increased by 14% due to the fine being accounted for in 2025 [6][7]. Group 3: Market Adjustments and Strategies - Xianju Pharmaceutical is shifting its product structure and expanding into overseas markets to mitigate the impact of declining revenues from dexamethasone products [5]. - The company is focusing on high-margin areas such as respiratory and dermatological products, with sales in respiratory products growing by 31% in 2024 [5]. - Tianyao Pharmaceutical's steroid raw material business also saw a revenue decline of 16.9% in 2024, indicating broader market pressures [7]. Group 4: Ongoing Challenges - Tianyao Pharmaceutical has faced multiple antitrust penalties over the past four years, indicating a pattern of regulatory scrutiny [8]. - Lianhuan Pharmaceutical's future penalties remain uncertain as it plans to appeal the decision, highlighting the ongoing challenges within the industry [8].