Clinical trials: Advancing science, equity, and economic growth
Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) is deepening its commitment to clinical research in Southeast Asia, with a growing number of active clinical trials across Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. These trials span therapeutic areas including oncology, hematology, cell therapy, and immunology, and involve hundreds of patients across many sites. This growing footprint reflects BMS’s global mission to deliver innovative medicines while ensuring that clinical research is inclusive, equitable, and impactful.
A hub for clinical research
Southeast Asia is emerging as a vital hub for clinical research. With its diverse populations, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and supportive regulatory environments, the region offers a unique opportunity to expand access to cutting-edge therapies and generate data that reflects real-world patient experiences.
Thailand in particular is recognized as a gateway into Asia. According to the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers Association (PReMA), clinical trials in Thailand deliver a strong economic return: for every 1 baht invested, the economy receives 2.9 baht in return¹, primarily through labor-related benefits. This underscores the broader value of clinical research in stimulating economic growth and development.
Diversity in clinical trials
Central to BMS’s approach is the recognition that diversity in clinical trials helps researchers understand how therapies perform across different populations, ensuring their safety and effectiveness for all. Without representative data, treatments may not be optimized for the very communities they aim to serve.
BMS has been a global leader in advancing clinical trial diversity. The company’s long-standing commitment included a $150 million investment in 2020 over five years to accelerate diversity and inclusion (D&I) and health equity initiatives. This included identifying and activating research sites in racially and ethnically diverse cities, and integrating patient voices into every step of the drug development process.
In Southeast Asia, this commitment translates into culturally competent outreach, inclusive protocol design, and partnerships with local investigators who reflect the communities they serve.
Better health, stronger communities, and shared progress
As BMS continues to expand its clinical trial footprint in Southeast Asia, the company remains focused on its core mission: to discover, develop, and deliver innovative medicines that help patients prevail over serious diseases.
By investing in Southeast Asia, BMS is not only advancing science but also contributing to a more equitable and prosperous future for the region.
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