Biocon Biologics Ltd (BBL), a subsidiary of Biocon Ltd (BSE code: 532523, NSE: BIOCON), today
announced that the company has completed the integration of the acquired biosimilars business in
over 70 countries in Emerging Markets effective July 1, 2023, increasing the scale and scope of its
business.
Following the deal closure in November 2022, this marks the first wave of countries where Viatris’
operations have fully transitioned to Biocon Biologics. A robust integration plan has ensured a
seamless transition of partners, people, systems, and processes across these countries.
The existing commercialized portfolio of biosimilars, including bTrastuzumab, bPegfilgrastim,
bBevacizumab, bGlargine, bAspart, bAdalimumab, and bEtanercept, managed by Viatris in these
markets, is now a part of Biocon Biologics’ commercial organization. We will work with existing and
new partners to expand our footprint and strengthen our business presence in these countries. Our
best-in-class R&D capabilities, high-quality manufacturing, supply chain excellence, and commercial
and regulatory expertise will enable us to expand access to a diverse portfolio of biosimilars, meet
patients’ needs and be a trusted partner to patients and the healthcare community in these markets.
Susheel Umesh, Chief Commercial Officer – Emerging Markets, Biocon Biologics said: “The
transitioning of these 70+ Emerging Markets to Biocon Biologics from Viatris marks the first phase of
the business integration plan charted out for the acquired business. This will allow Biocon Biologics to
meaningfully expand the geographic reach of the existing biosimilars portfolio and future pipeline
into growth markets where Viatris has existing sales infrastructure and local market expertise.
Working closely with key stakeholders in these markets will allow us to ensure reliable supplies of our
biosimilars for those who need them the most, while enabling us to capitalize on the rapidly expanding
global biosimilars opportunity.”
All our biosimilar products commercialized by Viatris in various markets such as bGlargine (Semglee),
bPegfilgrastim (Fulphila), bTrastuzumab (Ogivri), bBevacizumab (Abevmy) and inlicensed product
bAdalimumab (Hulio), will continue to serve patients’ needs. Most of these have been co-developed
with Biocon Biologics and manufactured at BBL’s world class facilities in India and Malaysia. The
diverse portfolio covers key therapeutic areas of cancer, diabetes and autoimmune disease.
BBL products stand for the highest standards of safety, efficacy, and reliability, and BBL remains
committed to continue Viatris’ legacy of providing patients, partners, and healthcare systems in these
markets with high quality products, services, and support.
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as the leading cause of death and disability in
Emerging Markets. Each year, 17 million* people die from a NCD before age 70; and 86% of these
premature deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Of the 41 million* deaths due
to NCDs each year, 77% are in LMICs. Biologic therapies have had transformative and far-reaching
effects particularly within some of the leading NCD therapy areas: cancer, diabetes, and immunology.
Biosimilars present an enormous opportunity to provide affordable access to these advanced
therapies. By expanding access to cost-effective biosimilars, Biocon Biologics seeks to facilitate the
achievement of Target 3.4 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals SDGs by 2030 – i.e.; reduce
premature mortality from Non-Communicable Diseases by one third through prevention and
treatment.