Annual Report 2021

CHAIRMAN’S STATEMENT 8 The United Laboratories International Holdings Limited Annual Report 2021 The Board recommends the payment of final dividend of RMB8 cents per share and a special dividend of RMB2 cents per share respectively for the year ended 31 December 2021 which, together with the interim dividend of RMB4 cents per share already paid out, amounted to a total dividend of RMB14 cents per share for the full year. On the premise of national efforts to promote carbon peaking, carbon neutrality and ecological civilization construction, the Group adheres to the sustainable development concept of “priority for environmental protection”, supports the establishment of national carbon market and clean energy system, coordinates with the comprehensive transformation towards green social development, and is committed to forming an environmental and circular economy system and building national green factory. At the same time, the Group actively participates in charitable initiatives, and has made outstanding achievements in a number of public charities, such as epidemic prevention and control, poverty alleviation and facilitating education, to give back to the community with practical actions and fulfill corporate social responsibilities. According to the latest ESG rating report issued by MSCI (Morgan Stanley Capital International), a global index compiler, the Group has been rated as grade A, and the ESG rating has been improved for the past two consecutive years. OUTLOOK Stepping into 2022, the situation between Russia and Ukraine triggered global economic turbulence and intensified inflationary pressure. Against the backdrop of an increasingly complex international environment, China’s economic development has followed the principle of “pursuing progress while ensuring stability”. High-quality development is the theme of social and economic development during the 14th Five- Year Plan period and even in the longer period. It also serves as the main melody of the mid – and long- term development of the pharmaceutical industry, under which the pharmaceutical industry will surely accelerate its transformation. With the implementation of the “Healthy China” strategy, the development of the pharmaceutical industry also ushered in new opportunities. The market growth brought about by the increase of disposable income of residents, the reform of the medical and health system and the aggravation of the aging of the population and other factors still maintain stable and sound. The Group is firmly optimistic about the long-term development of the pharmaceutical industry in China. The Group will consistently adhere to its commitment to the mission and vision of “Making Life More Valuable”, depend on the development and reform opportunities of the pharmaceutical and health industry in China, conform to the policy guidance, consolidate the development of core business, and drive enterprise transformation with scientific research and innovation. The Group will continue to input more resources in the research and development of new drugs, improve scientific research strength, expand talent team, expand field layout, develop innovative products with market potential, and provide impetus to the long-term sustainable development of the Group. The Group believes that as a pharmaceutical enterprise with comprehensive competitiveness in the pharmaceuticals’ research and development, production and quality system, sales and after-sales network, talent team, we are confident to give full play to our advantages in the fierce market competition, and continue to consolidate and enhance the industry position. On behalf of the Board, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our shareholders, customers and business partners for their full trust and support in 2021, as well as all staff for their efforts and contributions. I hope we can join hands and create a better future together. Tsoi Hoi Shan Chairman Hong Kong, 23 March 2022