Samsung Biologics aims to address rapidly evolving customer needs by offering comprehensive end-to-end services that integrate contract research (CRO), contract development (CDO), and contract manufacturing (CMO).
James Choi, Vice President of Sales Support at Samsung Biologics, spoke at BioJapan 2026 held at Pacifico Yokohama in Japan on Wednesday. He noted that as Japan sees a surge in the development of novel modalities like antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and peptides, it’s witnessing a corresponding spike in demand for contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) services.
The morning seminar, titled, Integrated CDMO Services and CFD-Based Optimization of ADC Conjugation Processes, drew over 100 industry professionals from Japan and beyond.
At the heart of Samsung Biologics’ strategy is its ‘end-to-end’ service model, seamlessly linking research, development, and production. This approach eases the burden on clients who would otherwise need to engage multiple firms throughout the drug development process, offering tailored support based on the unique properties of candidate substances and specific development strategies.
In early-stage research, the company employs patient-derived organoids – advanced three-dimensional (3D) culture models that mimic patient tumor characteristics. These models allow for the testing of candidate substances and the identification of biomarkers, crucial biological indicators of drug efficacy.
The development phase encompasses everything from establishing cell lines for drug production to crafting production processes and formulations, as well as supporting clinical trial application submissions. Company representatives emphasized that their production facilities are equipped to handle both small-scale clinical trial batches and large-scale commercial manufacturing.
The presentation also unveiled plans to broaden the company’s portfolio beyond antibody drugs, venturing into ADCs and peptides. ADCs represent a cutting-edge approach, combining cancer-targeting antibodies with potent anticancer drugs. Peptides, chains of amino acids, are finding applications in treatments for conditions like obesity and diabetes.
Through its recent acquisition of Polypeptide Group, a global leader in peptide CDMO services, Samsung Biologics is positioning itself to meet the growing demand for obesity and metabolic disease treatments.
This expansion is our response to the booming global market for GLP-1 class drugs and metabolic disease therapies, Choi explained. GLP-1 class medications work by mimicking hormones that regulate blood sugar and suppress appetite.
Samsung Biologics is set to deepen its engagement with Japanese clients through its Tokyo sales office, established last year.
Choi expressed optimism about this strategic move, stating that its geographical proximity allows for more intimate collaboration and rapid response times. Operating in the same time zone enables them to provide real-time support throughout every stage of a project.
BioJapan 2026, running from October 7-9, stands as Asia’s premier biotechnology exhibition. This annual event, first launched in 1986, is expected to draw over 22,000 global industry representatives this year.
Samsung Biologics has maintained a strong presence at BioJapan for four consecutive years since 2023. Beyond participating in seminars, the company operates a dedicated booth, actively pursuing new business opportunities and expanding its client base.
