Polpharma Biologics has signed licensing agreements with MS Pharma, a leading biosimilar production and distribution company in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
The licensing agreements are for the commercialisation of the biosimilar candidates vedolizumab (PB016), ocrelizumab (PB018) and guselkumab (PB019).
- Vedolizumab is a monoclonal antibody targeting α4β7 integrin (a molecule involved in the movement of immune cells to the gut), indicated for ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
- Ocrelizumab targets CD20-positive B cells and depletes them, helping reduce inflammation and slowing the progression of disability in people with multiple sclerosis.
- Guselkumab is a monoclonal antibody that selectively binds to the p19 subunit of interleukin-23 (IL-23), a key cytokine involved in inflammatory and immune responses. It is indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and active psoriatic arthritis.
Together, these biosimilars represent significant potential to expand access to biologic therapies for patients in the region.
Under the new agreements, MS Pharma will be responsible for the registration, marketing and distribution of the three biosimilars across MENA, whereas Polpharma Biologics will maintain responsibility for development, manufacturing, and supply.
Kalle Känd, CEO of MS Pharma, said: "Expanding our biosimilar portfolio in high-need therapeutic areas such as gastroenterology, neurology, and dermatology is a strategic priority."
"These three products will significantly strengthen our offering and reinforce our leadership in the MENA region," added Känd.
Both parties have also agreed to transfer fill and finish activities to the MENA region. These operations will be done at MS Pharma’s biologics manufacturing facility in Saudi Arabia.
"We are proud to extend our collaboration with MS Pharma," said Konstantin Matentzoglu, Supervisory Board Member of Polpharma Biologics Group.
"Their deep regional expertise and strong commercial network make them an ideal partner to bring our biosimilar medicines to more patients in MENA, helping improve treatment accessibility and sustainability of healthcare systems."
The news is the company's second major licensing announcement in the last month.