The U.S. Department of Treasury is planning to introduce rules that would allow American pharmaceuticals to invest in the licensing of Chinese drugs, Reuters reported Sept. 18, citing sources.

The rules, which are still subject to change, would cover most of the new drugs under development, except those related to pathogens or biotechnology that can be potentially weaponized, the sources told the news outlet.

The news sparked positive sentiment towards Chinese pharmaceuticals on Monday, with Akeso (HKG:9926) jumping 10%, Sino Biopharmaceutical (HKG:1177) climbing 8%, CSPC Pharmaceutical Group (HKG:1093) rising 7%, Innovent Biologics (HKG:1801) inching 6% higher and HUTCHMED (HKG:0013) increasing 4% at the close.

The U.S. Treasury Department did not immediately respond to MT Newswires' request for comment.

(Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)