Biotech executives discuss China competition and AI use at BIO 2026

Biotech and startup executives gathered at the annual international BIO conference in San Diego to discuss competitive pressures from Chinese drug developers and the costs of deploying artificial intelligence. On the exhibition floor, attendees watched World Cup games at a South Korean contract drug manufacturer’s booth while discussing how to strengthen U.S. biotech capabilities.

China competition and policy outlook China’s growing role in new drug development emerged as a central topic both onstage and in informal conversations. Executives outlined plans to secure greater influence in Washington and respond to existing pricing policies.

Artificial intelligence strategies Sessions examined early results from AI projects and ways to improve profitability of the technology. Attendees described efforts to identify use cases that deliver measurable advantages in drug development speed or cost.