Zhang Linqi (R), leading scientist in developing China's first approved COVID-19 antibody drug, talks with China Daily reporter Du Juan in Beijing on Dec 20, 2021. [Photo by Yan Maoqiang/chinadaily.com.cn]

Q: When will the new antibody drug hit the market?

We are pushing for the market launch as early as possible. But several procedures are needed.

A treatment guideline must be formulated. The conditions for storage, shipping and production must also be met. This process may take a few days or a few weeks.

It takes about two to three months to finish production after we receive an order. So we are also pushing for a mechanism like pre-purchase or reserve.