China needs monkeys: lab animal shortage could hinder biotech growth

China's biotechnology industry is experiencing a surge in demand for primate experimental models, leading to a shortage of lab monkeys, according to a leading biotech firm. The market recovery has resulted in a significant increase in fundraising and out-licensing deals for innovative drugs. As global pharmaceutical companies continue to invest in cheaper Chinese-developed drugs, the cost of a lab monkey has risen to as much as 200,000 yuan (US$29,802) in July, compared to 50,000 yuan in early 2025.

This price increase is due to a tightened supply of non-human primates for experimental use, as their breeding rates have remained relatively stable. The shortage of lab monkeys is projected to range between 15,000 and 20,000 from 2026 to 2028. Joinn Laboratories, a major player in the field, has profited greatly from China's biotech boom, with its Hong Kong-listed shares surging over 150% since 2025.

The company currently owns over 20,000 non-human primates used for breeding and non-clinical research. Other biotech giants, such as WuXi AppTec and Charles River, have also acquired Chinese companies with significant monkey inventories to secure their supply chain. The growing demand for lab monkeys is expected to continue as more Chinese-developed drugs enter the pipeline, making the animals a crucial factor in the competitiveness of preclinical contract research organizations.