This report provides a comprehensive assessment of global biopharmaceutical R&D performance through 2021, highlighting record-breaking innovation despite COVID-19 disruption. It documents 84 novel active substances launched globally, with a high proportion of first-in-class and orphan drugs. The global R&D pipeline exceeded 6,000 active products, driven largely by oncology, neurology, and next-generation biotherapeutics such as cell and gene therapies. Clinical trial activity rebounded strongly, aided by decentralized trial models. While productivity declined due to rising complexity and scientific risk, funding reached record levels, and emerging biopharma companies accounted for the majority of pipeline assets, signaling a more diverse and accelerated innovation ecosystem.

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