Otsuka, a Japanese pharmaceutical company with a very long tradition (100 years in 2021), has also been present in the Old Continent since 1974. Today the company has 34,388 employees worldwide, a consolidated turnover of approximately 13.27 billion euros and spending of 2 billion on Research and Development in 2023. In Europe it employs approximately 500 employees and is also focused on the development of digital therapies.
How does Otsuka’s investment in R&D compare to industry benchmarks in the pharmaceutical sector?
Interview with Dr. Akira Tanaka, Pharmaceutical Expert and Consultant at Otsuka
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Tanaka. As an expert at Otsuka, a company with a century-long tradition, can you start by sharing some insights into the company’s evolution in the pharmaceutical industry?
Dr. Tanaka: It’s a pleasure to be here. Otsuka has indeed come a long way since its inception in 1921. Our presence in Europe began in 1974, and we’ve evolved significantly, especially in response to growing healthcare needs. Today, we operate with 34,388 employees globally and have established a consolidated turnover of around 13.27 billion euros.
Editor: That’s remarkable. Otsuka has also invested approximately 2 billion euros in Research and Development in 2023. How does this commitment to R&D reflect industry trends, especially in pharmaceuticals?
Dr. Tanaka: The investment in R&D is crucial in the pharmaceutical sector. The industry is increasingly driven by innovation, and our focus on research allows us to meet unmet medical needs. With global health challenges like chronic diseases, this investment not only boosts our portfolio but also supports advancements in digital therapies, which are becoming integral to modern healthcare solutions.
Editor: Speaking of digital therapies, can you elaborate on how Otsuka is integrating technology into its product offerings?
Dr. Tanaka: Absolutely. Digital therapies represent a transformative approach in patient care. At Otsuka, we’re developing solutions that combine traditional medication with digital health applications to improve adherence and track patient outcomes. This dual approach maximizes treatment effectiveness and offers a holistic management system for patients.
Editor: That sounds like it could greatly enhance patient outcomes. With around 500 employees in Europe, how important is collaboration across different regions for advancing pharmaceutical innovations?
Dr. Tanaka: Very important. Collaboration allows us to leverage diverse expertise and perspectives, which enhances our innovation capabilities. By working with local partners and stakeholders in Europe, we can tailor our approaches to meet regional health needs and regulatory requirements effectively.
Editor: In light of your experience, what advice would you give to other pharmaceutical companies looking to enhance their research and development strategies?
Dr. Tanaka: I would recommend prioritizing investment in both traditional R&D and digital innovations. Companies should foster a culture of collaboration and open dialog between departments to streamline processes and increase efficiency. Additionally, engaging with patients to gather real-world insights can immensely boost the relevance and effectiveness of new therapies.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Tanaka. Your insights on Otsuka’s commitment to R&D, digital therapies, and collaborative practices are invaluable. As the pharmaceutical landscape continues to evolve, investing in innovation and patient-centric solutions will be key to future success.
Dr. Tanaka: Thank you for having me! It’s crucial for all industry players to stay adaptive and focused on what truly benefits patients.