Strategic Expansion with a Global Vision
Through the agreement, Merck secures exclusive rights to develop, manufacture, and commercialize HRS-5346 globally, except in Greater China.
Frank Jiang, executive vice president and chief strategy officer of Hengrui Pharma, emphasized the importance of the partnership. “Merck’s deep expertise in cardiovascular care and its global reach will accelerate the development of HRS-5346, providing a potential new treatment option for millions at risk of atherosclerosis.”
A Pattern of High-Profile Collaborations
This isn’t Merck’s first big bet on Chinese pharma. In 2022, the company struck a $9.5 billion partnership with Kelun-Biotech to develop a suite of investigational antibody-drug conjugates aimed at cancer treatment.
Regulatory Approval and Closing Timeline
The deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act and other customary closing conditions.
Legal Teams Behind the Deal
Merck is being advised by a team from Gibson Dunn & Crutcher LLP, led by antitrust partner Steve Weissman.
Hengrui Pharma is represented by Cooley LLP, with partners Alan Tamarelli and Bill Christiansen leading the negotiations.
