Daiichi Sankyo (TSE: 4568) has strengthened its commitment to Canada with the official opening of its permanent headquarters in Toronto, supported by additional operational and research and development investment. The move highlights Canada’s strategic importance in Daiichi Sankyo’s global growth strategy as a leading oncology-focused biopharmaceutical company. The new headquarters reinforces the company’s long-term presence in Canada and supports its efforts to accelerate scientific collaboration, clinical research and access to innovative oncology therapies.
Commenting on the milestone, Masahiro Kato, Managing Director, Europe and Canada, Daiichi Sankyo, said the establishment of a permanent base in Toronto marks an important step in the company’s international expansion. He noted that Canada’s strong healthcare and life sciences ecosystem offers significant opportunities for growth through innovation and partnerships, positioning the country as a meaningful contributor to advancing global standards of cancer care.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford welcomed the investment, stating that Ontario’s efforts to reduce taxes and regulatory burden are helping attract global companies. He said Daiichi Sankyo’s expansion will support job creation, strengthen the provincial economy and further establish Ontario as a centre for innovation and health research.
Fatih Yedikardeş, Country Manager, Canada, Daiichi Sankyo, said the opening signals a new phase for the company in Canada, supporting broader access to its oncology portfolio while deepening collaboration with healthcare professionals and the wider life sciences community.
Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, Vic Fedeli, noted that Ontario remains the largest life sciences jurisdiction in Canada and an attractive destination for pharmaceutical companies advancing research from laboratory to market. He congratulated Daiichi Sankyo on the opening of its Canadian headquarters and highlighted the province’s skilled workforce and strong R&D capabilities.
Over the past two years, Daiichi Sankyo has supported 18 oncology clinical trials across 43 sites in Canada, working with leading institutions including Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, CHUM, BC Cancer, McGill University Health Centre and The Ottawa Hospital. Ontario Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones said the investment reinforces Ontario’s role as a hub for health innovation and will help accelerate access to advanced cancer medicines for patients across the province.
The opening was marked by a traditional Kagami Biraki ceremony, symbolising new beginnings, followed by a Japanese taiko drumming performance that reflected the company’s heritage. The event brought together company leaders, government representatives and partners to celebrate the occasion. With its expanded presence and growing team, Daiichi Sankyo is focused on advancing its oncology pipeline and strengthening its role as a committed partner within the Canadian healthcare system.
Daiichi Sankyo is a global healthcare company dedicated to discovering, developing and delivering new standards of care that enhance quality of life worldwide. With more than 120 years of scientific expertise, the company applies advanced science and technology to create innovative treatments for cancer, cardiovascular disease and other areas of high unmet medical need.
