Hong Kong biotech start-up Arctic Vision eyes leading role in China, Asia ophthalmic medicine markets

Arctic Vision provides innovative therapies to improve conditions such as myopia and near-vision

Backed by Tencent and Nan Fung Group, the company plans an initial public offering in Hong Kong next year

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‘Innovation is at the very core of the company,’ says Eddy Wu, founder and CEO of Arctic Vision. Photo: SCMP Pictures

Published: 11:00am, 19 Sep 2021Updated: 10:18pm, 19 Sep 2021

Arctic Vision, a Hong Kong-based biotechnology start-up, aims to become a leading light in the US$7 billion ophthalmology drug market in Asia, particularly mainland China, with its innovative treatments for the many millions of patients with eye disorders.

Established by Hong Kong native Eddy Wu Hoi-ti in May 2019, the young company plans to launch its first product in China and seek a stock market listing in Hong Kong next year.

It has already secured financial support from a group of major investors that include Chinese internet giant Tencent and a number of big family offices in Hong Kong such as Nan Fung Group, and Adrian Cheng Chi-kong, the chief executive of New World Development.

“Innovation is at the very core of the company. We aim to lead the ophthalmology markets in China, Asia and the world through the discovery and development of innovative solutions for ophthalmic diseases,” said Wu, the chief executive of Arctic Vision.

He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology in 2002 and a PhD focusing on molecular pharmacology from his alma mater four years later.