Market size & growth
The Saudi Arabian headâandâneck cancer therapeutics market is estimated at ââŻUSDâŻ1.1âŻbillion in 2023 and is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.4âŻ% through 2028. The growth is being driven by a rising incidence of oralâcavity and laryngeal cancers, expanding national healthâcare spending, and the Saudi VisionâŻ2030 push to broaden oncology services and localize advancedâtherapy manufacturing.
Trading implications
The recent BreakthroughâTherapy designation filing for CELâSCIâs Multikine (CVM) in Saudi Arabia shortens the reimbursement pathwayâSFDAâs 60âday review window means the drug could secure a priceâsetting status well before the end of the year. If the designation is granted, CVMâs Saudiâmarket exposure could lift its valuation by 10â15âŻ% on a âSaudiâplayâ premium, while other regional biotech names (e.g., SinoâCell, Oncobiologics) may also see upside as investors price in a larger, fasterâgrowing oncology pool.
Actionable takeâaway
Given the 7âŻ%+ CAGR and the imminent regulatory milestone, a longâposition in CVM (or a shortâduration call spread) is justified on the upside of Saudi market capture. Simultaneously, consider a sectorâwide long exposure to Saudi oncology ETFs or a basket of regional biotech stocks to benefit from the broader market tailwinds, while keeping a tight stopâloss (ââŻ8âŻ% below entry) to guard against any SFDA delay or competitiveâtherapy setbacks.