Bayer's radiology business chief reaffirmed the company's commitment to the Chinese market during an interview at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) on Nov. 6 in Shanghai.

"This is a fantastic platform for interacting with other companies and the government while seeking collaborations," said Nelson Ambrogio, head of the radiology business at Bayer's pharmaceuticals division. 

"In the past seven years, we've introduced more than 100 innovative technologies and launched eight new products, which we call 'CIIE babies.' We have also signed 30 contracts," he told China.org.cn. "This year, our exhibition space at CIIE exceeds 800 square meters," he added.

Ambrogio highlighted China's position as a strategic market for Bayer's radiology business. "The Chinese market is growing, and we expect it will continue to grow because of the need for more diagnostic procedures in the future that lead to better patient outcomes in the long term. We are making investments and will continue to make investments," he said.

A key demonstration of this commitment is Bayer's multi-million dollar supply center in Beijing, launched in September 2023. According to Ambrogio, the facility aims to begin local production of injectors within three to five years.

Bayer's Booth at the China International Import Expo in Shanghai, Nov. 6, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Bayer]

Attending the expo for the seventh consecutive year, the life science giant is showcasing its latest products and technologies across pharmaceutical, consumer health and crop science, as it seeks to strengthen local partnerships.

In the field of radiology, the company introduced its MEDRAD Centargo CT Injection System, a "CIIE Baby." This product is the first CT high-pressure injector registered with a Class III certificate in China and includes a Smart Protocol assistant that creates personalized injection protocols based on equipment parameters and patient factors.

Beyond new production facilities, Ambrogio emphasized local cooperation with Chinese institutions and scientists. He noted that Bayer is engaged in "very good conversations" aimed at harnessing the advanced scientific work being conducted in China.

"This applies to the manufacturing of our products," he explained, and also to "the great work in artificial intelligence in China."

Ambrogio noted that Bayer seeks to share its expertise while exploring commercialization opportunities for Chinese institutional research.

Earlier that day, Ambrogio visited two hospitals to discuss collaborative efforts with leading R&D, focusing on data generation and developing solutions specific to the Chinese population.

"We are investing in China in many ways," he added.