Ann: Starpharma signs new DEP partnership with Chase Sun, page-11

These are legitimate concerns gaucau. Concerns which need to be viewed in the context of the opportunity, and balanced with strong internal compliance measures. My working assumption is that SPL has considered this carefully, but others may of course disagree and maybe i give them too much credit. They certainly need to keep their IP closely guarded.

My employer is an MNC with significant operations across APAC, with China representing ~60% of revenue in the APAC region. We have experienced IP theft over the years, it has been a systemic issue with formulas and customer details being shared with smaller low cost competitors. However, with tighter controls and the assistance of local authorities in China we have had very good results. This is of course different by industry and how much you are prepared to spend.

I view the announcement on balance as a positive.