Global Scans · Pharmaceuticals · Weekly Summary

• [New] The Quantum-AI Convergence IBM publicly stated that 2026 will mark the first time a quantum computer outperforms a classical computer, unlocking breakthroughs in drug development, materials science, and financial optimization. DEV Community
• [New] The convergence of rigorous analytical methodologies and innovative molecular design will be crucial in the delivery of clinically effective and safe biosimilar therapies to patients around the world. PubMed Central (PMC)
• [New] Between now and 2030, major pharmaceutical companies face significant revenue erosion as blockbuster patents expire. Syner-G
• [New] By 2028-2030, expect closed-loop systems that adjust drug delivery, stimulation, or other therapeutic parameters in real time. Educational Technology and Change Journal
• [New] Pill testing can be an effective harm reduction tool in a range of contexts, with support for its implementation in Australia and opportunities for its broader application in other countries and drug use settings. PubMed Central (PMC)
• [New] A more constructive approach would recognize that AI-enabled drug discovery is inherently transnational and that shared standards, interoperable data systems, and joint regulatory pilots could amplify benefits for patients worldwide. PubMed Central (PMC)
• [New] Former FDA Commissioner Gottlieb's perspective, Securing America's Pharmaceutical Innovation Edge, is the most overtly strategic, warning that US underinvestment in the NIH and strain on the FDA threaten to erode America's biomedical leadership at a moment when China is rapidly advancing. PubMed Central (PMC)
• [New] Merck has been among the most strategically driven acquirers, acting under visible pressure from the approaching loss of exclusivity for Keytruda, currently the world's best-selling cancer drug, in 2028. Life Science Daily News
• [New] Insilico's $120 million partnership with Qilu Pharmaceutical will result in the development of cardiometabolic therapies. Deepgram
• [New] West Pharmaceutical warned in the United States that a ransomware attack was affecting operations at a company supplying containment and delivery systems to healthcare and pharmaceutical customers. Digital Forensics Magazine
• [New] The pharmaceutical companies segment held a 18% share in 2025 and is expected to register a significant growth of 25.5% CAGR during 2026 and 2035, owing to the growing complexity of drug development processes and pharmacovigilance workflows. Precedence Research
• [New] By tying U.S. drug prices to international prices, prospective MFN will lower U.S. prices and put upward pressure on prices paid in other wealthy nations. The White House
• [New] The ongoing litigation risk surrounding MFN policies - particularly related to the Global Benchmark for Efficient Drug Pricing (GLOBE) and Guarding U.S. Medicare Against Rising Drug Costs (GUARD) models - further elevates their profile as a likely target for congressional oversight. JD Supra
• IQVIA will integrate its AI-enabled clinical trial capabilities in a biosimilar development and commercialization collaboration with Kexing Biopharm. Contract Pharma
• By 2026, more pharmaceutical manufacturing plants will deploy connected digital platforms spanning discovery, development, scale-up, manufacturing, and supply chain. International Multispeciality Journal of Health
• Well over a million people die each year from drug-resistant bacteria, and by 2050, the World Health Organization estimates that number could be 10 times higher. New York Post
• Looming tariffs, reportedly up to 200%, on U.S. pharmaceutical imports could drive up costs and affect international trade dynamics. BUSINESS 2.0 NEWS

Last updated: 02 June 2026