Merck & Co.’s immunotherapy cancer drug Keytruda is finding its way into China as the first imported drug approved for use under a pilot program on the resort island of Hainan intended to boost medical tourism.
The fast-track entry for Keytruda into China, albeit limited, is likely to give Merck an advantage in competing with Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., which is also seeking approval in China for its rival drug Opdivo. Both companies had faced a lengthy approval process required by Chinese regulators.
