#Tokyo #Drug Development #Asahi Kasei #Machida

Asahi Kasei's New Commercial: 'Challenging Headwinds in Machida'

Asahi Kasei Corporation (headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, led by President Kojiro Kudo) has introduced their latest commercial in the corporate advertising series titled "Hamidase! Umidase! Asahi Kasei." The new installment, which portrays the theme of the pharmaceutical business—a key focus in their ongoing mid-term management plan—will air nationwide starting on December 26, 2025. The commercial features actor Ayumu Nakajima, whose performance stands out as he navigates through a turbulent environment while showcasing the company's commitment to innovation.

Founded in 1922, Asahi Kasei's mission is to contribute to the lives and health of people worldwide. The company has continuously evolved its business ventures in response to societal needs, currently focusing on three main sectors: healthcare, housing, and materials. Within the healthcare domain, the pharmaceutical business seeks to eliminate the barriers posed by illness, ensuring that individuals can pursue their passions without limitations. The company is poised for growth through strategic integration with overseas specialty pharmaceuticals, particularly with Veloxis Pharmaceuticals, acquired in 2019, and Calliditas Therapeutics, a Swedish company poised for acquisition in 2024. Together with Asahi Kasei Pharma, these entities will enhance global development, clinical research, and sales efforts.

This new commercial sheds light on the arduous journey of developing new medicines. A single drug can take over a decade to develop, with a staggering success rate of roughly 1 in 30,000. The various stages from basic research to ensuring safety and efficacy before reaching patients pose numerous challenges. Yet, the resolve of employees dedicated to this mission is symbolically expressed through the motif of