Keytruda sales show how Merck can compete in China

Despite local competition from cheaper PD-1 inhibitors, Keytruda continues to drive Merck's growth in China and its revenue globally.

The immuno-oncology drug brought in $2.6 billion in global sales for the quarter, up 63% from 2Q18 at constant exchange rates and ahead of consensus estimates of $2.5 billion. Sales in China drove Keytruda pembrolizumab's $1.1 billion ex-U.S. revenues, a year-over-year increase of 73%, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer Frank Clyburn said on the company's earnings call Tuesday...