"China will play an increasingly important role within Merck's global innovation network," CEO Oschmann said.

"At the same time, we believe that we can facilitate China's emerging technology industries, as well as helping to implement the government's innovation-driven strategy."

Merck's history in China can be traced back in 1933, when it first established a legal entity in Shanghai.

The German science and technology company said these days it is actively involved in China's healthcare reforms and its consumption upgrade — consumers' increased spending on premium goods and services -- to meet the essential needs of Chinese customers.

In February, Merck established a China Innovation Hub to explore new technologies and build local partnerships.