Opens in new windowThe biopharma industry enters 2026 in a period of disciplined growth after a sharp reset marked by funding constraints, tougher valuations and rising pressure for capital efficiency.
China is rapidly becoming a major source of early-stage innovation, prompting global companies to pursue earlier licensing and co-development deals. However, there is a looming $300bn patent cliff ahead for the sector. This is pushing big pharma toward renewed M&A as companies race to fill future revenue gaps.
AI investment continues to surge, shifting from narrow use cases to enterprise-wide transformation and enabling “smart pipelines” that could accelerate R&D. Therapeutic focus is broadening as CNS, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases gain momentum alongside oncology.
Despite economic and strategic pressures, the biopharma sector approaches 2026 with cautious optimism and a renewed emphasis on efficient, tech-enabled innovation.
Tech is the watchword in the medical devices and diagnostics market. AI is quickly becoming central to medtech’s direction, driving advances in imaging, robotics and clinical decision-making.
Industry leaders like Siemens Healthineers, GE HealthCare and Philips see AI as key to efficiency, from autonomous imaging and prefilled reports to fully optimized treatment plans.
Robotics combined with AI is transforming surgery and productivity.
Despite the excitement around novel technologies and market firsts, regulatory hurdles loom large for 2026.
In this issue, we delve into these trends and more. Our coverage also includes the Scrip 100, Generics Bulletin Top 50 and Medtech Top 100 company league tables.
Join us as we explore what 2026 has in store for biopharma and medtech as these dynamic industries evolve and confront global challenges.
Lucie Ellis-Taitt
Executive Editor
