Abu Dhabi-based drugmaker ADCAN Pharma and regional biopharmaceutical company MS Pharma have agreed to collaborate on manufacturing biosimilars and other medicines in the UAE.
The partnership sets out a framework for local manufacturing, packaging, testing and batch release of biosimilars, injectable medicines and oral solid dosage forms, the companies said in a statement on Tuesday. Financial terms were not disclosed.
The agreement was announced at the Abu Dhabi Future Health Summit.
Biosimilars are the main focus, reflecting the growing role of advanced biologic therapies in treating complex and chronic diseases, the companies said.
Under the partnership, ADCAN will have a laboratory in the UAE able to carry out the full range of quality tests required for monoclonal antibodies, the companies said.
The proposed portfolio covers oncology, immunology, ophthalmology, respiratory, metabolic and musculoskeletal conditions, as well as anti-infectives and cardiovascular, neurological and genitourinary care.
ADCAN Pharma, part of the International Holding Company group, was established in 2013 and is based in Industrial City of Abu Dhabi. It operates three plants with annual capacity of 500 million tablets and 80 million capsules.
The company describes itself as the only manufacturer of oncology and hormone products in the UAE.
The companies said the deal supports the UAE’s push to localize pharmaceutical production and make UAE-made medicines more competitive in regional and global markets.
