In a recent interview with Scrip, Novotech CEO Dr. John Moller emphasized the growing demand among emerging and mid-sized biotechs for clinical trial locations that offer regulatory agility, cost efficiency, and strategic insulation from geopolitical risks—especially in light of escalating US-China tariffs, supply chain disruptions, and broader global trade uncertainties.
Moller noted that while investigational products often carry minimal tariff exposure, trial inputs like monitoring devices and consumables are vulnerable to rising costs. He underscored that Novotech’s multi-regional infrastructure across APAC, North America, and Europe offers sponsors de-risked, flexible trial models that can adapt to global shifts in policy and logistics.
The CEO also discussed increasing sponsor reassessment of China-based CROs/CRDMOs, driven by regulatory scrutiny, including the now-stalled BIOSECURE Act, and broader operational concerns. Despite the challenges, Novotech continues to support trials in China while offering regional diversification to mitigate risk.
Moller reaffirmed Novotech’s commitment to supporting innovative biotech development, especially within the emerging biopharma segment, through scalable engagement models and partnerships that optimize capital efficiency and recruitment. Recent investments from GIC, Temasek, and TPG will further enable the CRO’s expansion and M&A strategy.
The full-service CRO remains positioned to help sponsors navigate a complex landscape through speed, scientific excellence, and client-centric delivery.