Biolake, the Wuhan National Bio-industry Base in Wuhan East Lake High-tech Development Zone (Optics Valley of China, or OVC), has attracted over 4,200 domestic and international biopharmaceutical companies, rapidly evolving into "China Pharma Valley".

Among the companies, three have revenues exceeding 10 billion yuan ($1.48 billion), nine are publicly listed local companies, and 560 are high-tech enterprises. Over 90 percent of Hubei province's new drugs approved for clinical trials originate from Biolake.

A researcher at Darwin Biotech develops innovative drugs. [Photo/WeChat account of Optics Valley of China]

In January 2026, Darwin Biotech relocated its headquarters from Beijing to Wuhan. In June, the company initiated the construction of a new research and production facility focused on innovative neurorepair drugs.

"This is not merely a relocation; it's a strategic move aligned with our growth strategy," stated Wang Yu, chairman of Darwin Biotech. "OVC's robust foundation in science, education, medicine, and engineering provides the driving force for sustained technological innovation."

Darwin Biotechnology is not alone in its move. In February of last year, Chiatai Tianqing Pharma established its first subsidiary in central and western China at OVC. Similarly, in June, Shenzhen-based Forward Pharmaceuticals, a leader in anti-cancer drug innovation, relocated its headquarters to this burgeoning hub.

Looking ahead to the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-30), OVC aims to double the scale of its life and health industry from 220 billion yuan in 2025 to 500 billion yuan, accelerating the development of its Biolake into a globally competitive bio-industry hub.