(Yicai) Nov. 24 -- Gattefossé is optimistic about China's future and remains unwaveringly confident about the market prospects, according to the China general manager of the French maker of high-quality pharmaceutical excipients and natural cosmetic ingredients.

China's innovation pace is fast, with scientific research strength leading the world, Jacky Chen told Yicai in an interview during Gattefossé's celebration for its 20 years in China.

"Keeping up with China's innovation trends and prioritizing responses to Chinese clients' needs are key challenges for the company," Chen explained. "We will continue to increase investment, strengthen local team building, and create new job opportunities."

In recent years, China has achieved a strategic shift from generic drug production to the development of first-in-class small molecules, peptides, and biologics, Chen noted, adding that several leading Chinese contract development and manufacturing organizations, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms have gained global recognition, attracting billions of US dollars in venture capital.

Many of these companies have successfully listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, the Chinese mainland's technology boards, or the Nasdaq to raise funds, Chen pointed out.

On Nov. 19, Gattefossé announced it had upgraded its Technical Center of Excellence in Shanghai, which was expanded by over 60 percent. The center now brings together advanced personal care and pharmaceutical laboratories, a sensory analysis room, a clinical testing area, and cutting-edge analytical instruments.

"In November, we celebrate 20 years of presence in China," the firm noted in a press release. "On this milestone anniversary, we reaffirm our long-term confidence in the Chinese market and inaugurate the upgraded Technical Center of Excellence in Shanghai, further strengthening China's strategic role within Gattefossé's operations across Asia. "

As the core hub for Gattefossé in Asia, the Shanghai center will serve not only Chinese clients but also cover markets in Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, developing customized formulations and providing technical training aligned with global trends.

"With this state-of-the-art world-class facility and a highly skilled local team, we are better equipped than ever to support our customers in China and across Asia," Chen said. "We have enhanced our capabilities with one-stop solutions and have driven innovative applications."

"Since establishing our affiliate in 2005, we have continuously deepened our presence in China, building strong and lasting partnerships with customers, universities, and institutions," said Eduardo de Purgly, chief executive officer of Gattefossé.

"China is one of our top priorities for investment and growth," de Purgly noted. "This long-term commitment reflects the strong bond between France and China, rooted in shared values of innovation, expertise, and collaboration."

Revenue from Asia accounts for nearly 25 percent of Gattefossé's total turnover, with China occupying a pivotal position in the region. Through the comprehensive upgrade of the Shanghai Technical Center of Excellence, we aim to further strengthen China's core strategic role in Gattefossé's Asian business layout, de Purgly added.

Gattefossé operates four Technical Centers of Excellence worldwide. In addition to the one in Shanghai and the one in its headquarters in France, the two others are in the United States and India.

Editors: Tang Shihua, Futura Costaglione