European pharmaceutical companies call for action to compete with US and Chinese firms

The Guardian · September 22, 2026Original source ↗

What happened

Prominent European pharmaceutical firms, including AstraZeneca, GSK, and Novo Nordisk, have expressed concerns about losing competitiveness in drug development and investment to US and Chinese companies. The leaders of these firms have written to national leaders, urging measures to support the pharmaceutical sector in Europe.

Why it matters

This issue impacts the future of drug innovation and investment in Europe, affecting healthcare and economic stability.

How this story affects people

How does this story affect you if you are a patient in Europe?

You could face challenges in accessing new and innovative treatments if European pharmaceutical companies struggle to compete with their US and Chinese counterparts. A decline in drug development could lead to fewer options and potentially higher prices for medications.

How does this story affect you if you work in the European pharmaceutical industry?

Job security and investment in your company may be at risk as firms call for government support to remain competitive. A decrease in competitiveness could lead to job losses or reduced opportunities for advancement within the sector.

Want this written about you?

The breakdown above is the shared version, for kinds of people. In the app, Ripple uses your job, your city, and your family, then writes that part about you.

Get your Ripple