Sun Pharma strikes distribution alliance with Mitsubishi Tanabe in Japan

Industry:    2016-09-06

MUMBAI: Sun PharmaBSE 0.24 % has announced a distribution alliance in Japan with Mitsubishi Tanabe for a phased transfer of manufacturing and marketing rights of 14 products that it acquired fromNovartisBSE 0.49 % earlier this year as part of a $293 million deal. Sun’s products are part of the long-listed and established prescription brands and includes Parlodel,Lamisil, Nitroderm, and Lopressor.

In March, Sun had said the brands have combined annualized revenues of approximately $160 million and address medical conditions across several therapeutic areas. It had also stated that the acquired brands will be marketed by a reliable and established local marketing partner under the Sun Pharma label, adding that the local marketing partner will be responsible for distribution of the brands.

The prescription brands will be transferred from Novartis Pharma K.K. to Sun Pharma’s subsidiary in Japan beginning October 2016. “Under this alliance, following the transfer of manufacturing & marketing rights to Sun Pharma’s subsidiary in Japan, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation will market and distribute all the 14 brands as well as provide information on their proper use to healthcare professionals,” Sun said in a press statement.

Isao Muramatsu, President, Sun Pharma Japan said, “Through this alliance, we have the opportunity to leverage Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation’s specialized expertise to create a strong business foundation for us in Japan. Sun Pharma will focus on expanding its sales channels in Japan’s pharmaceutical market while continuing to ensure a stable supply of medicines and healthcare information.”

Large Indian generic drug makers rate Japan as a potential market to establish a long-term presence. LupinBSE 0.70 %, which draws ten percent of its global revenues from Japan, recently acquired a set of products from Shionogi. Other Indian companies like Dr. Reddy’s are also seen chasing a few other targets in Japan.
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