At the third China International Supply Chain Expo in Shenzhen on the Chinese mainland, biotech and pharmaceutical companies gathered to showcase how they are reimagining global logistics through modular supply chains.
Modular supply chains break down complex workflows into standardized, plug-and-play units that can be quickly assembled, scaled or customized. Companies at the expo highlighted several core modules:
- Raw materials & reagents: Pre-qualified inputs that meet global quality standards.
- Upstream production: Fermentation and cell culture units ready for rapid deployment.
- Purification & fill-finish: Flexible assemblies for downstream processing and packaging.
- Cold chain logistics: Temperature-controlled modules with real-time tracking.
According to exhibitor data, this approach can cut lead times by up to 40% and reduce operational costs by nearly 30%, creating value for both suppliers and clients. Suppliers benefit from lower capital expenditure and predictable volume commitments, while clients gain agile scale-up options and enhanced traceability.
“With our plug-and-play modules, we can enter new markets in weeks rather than months,” said a spokesperson from a Shanghai-based biotech startup. “This flexibility is a game-changer for life sciences.”
CGTN Digital reporter Li Yiqing notes that as global demand for innovative therapies grows, modular supply chains could become the industry standard, reshaping how biopharma companies serve patients worldwide.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
