China-based BeiGene, a biotechnology company that specialises in the development of drugs for cancer treatment, has established its European headquarters in Basel, Switzerland. The new location will allow the company to further develop its operations across the continent.

The company initially plans to employ 150 staff at the Basel office.

In a press release, chief executive officer John V Oyler commented: “The opening in Basel builds upon the tremendous growth of our organisation in Europe and will provide a new centre for our operations in the region. We have built a terrific team and the skilled talent network in Basel will support our future growth. This is just the beginning – we are on a path to advance our mission to reach more patients with innovative medicines across Europe and globally.”

Based in Beijing, BeiGene employs more than 8,000 staff across its global locations.